University of Barcelona Researchers Identify Two Drugs That Could Reverse Fatty Liver Disease

What's Happening?

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have discovered that two existing drugs, pemafibrate and telmisartan, can significantly reduce fat buildup in animal models of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as fatty liver disease. This condition is the most widespread liver disorder globally, affecting approximately one in three adults. The study, published in Pharmacological Research, suggests that these drugs, when used together, could alleviate liver damage and lower cardiovascular complications. The research was led by Marta Alegret, a professor at the University of Barcelona, in collaboration with several institutions, including the Santa Creu i Sant Pau Hospital Research Institute and Uppsala University.

Why It's Important?

The findings offer a potentially safer and more effective treatment option for MASLD, a condition with limited available therapies. Drug repurposing, which involves finding new uses for existing medications, is a promising strategy due to its cost-effectiveness and faster implementation compared to developing new drugs. This approach is particularly valuable for treating early stages of MASLD, which are often symptom-free. The study highlights the potential of combining drugs to target different pathogenic pathways, potentially reducing toxicity and enhancing therapeutic effects.

What's Next?

While the results are promising, further clinical studies are necessary to determine if the benefits observed in animal models can be replicated in humans. Researchers are also exploring the effectiveness of these drugs in more advanced stages of MASLD, where fibrosis is present. Future studies will involve dual models to assess the impact on both liver fibrosis and cardiovascular disease.

Beyond the Headlines

The study also reveals the role of the PCK1 protein in telmisartan-derived hepatic lipid lowering, offering insights into the drug's mechanism of action. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing MASLD and related conditions.