This protective enzyme could help stop fatty liver disease from getting worse

Scientists have identified an enzyme that may act as a natural defense against the worsening of fatty liver disease, which affects an estimated 100 million Americans. The enzyme, called UBE2N, helps liver cells clear away damaged mitochondria and break down fat, potentially preventing the inflammation, scarring, and cell damage associated with the more dangerous condition MASH. This protective enzyme could help stop fatty liver disease from getting worse.

The findings, from a preclinical study published in Nature Metabolism, could eventually support new strategies for preventing serious liver injury and progression toward liver failure. Have metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, according to the American Liver Foundation. Roughly 20% to 25% of those affected go on to develop metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a more serious form of the condition in which excess liver fat is accompanied by inflammation, cell injury and scarring.

Why MASH Is Difficult to Treat Current care mainly centers on lifestyle changes and efforts to limit additional liver damage. Although medications are available, treatment options are still limited, and there is currently no cure for MASH. Earlier research has suggested that damaged mitochondria, the structures that produce energy for cells, may contribute to the development and progression of MASH.