INTEGRATING 'GUT-LIVER AXIS' PRINCIPLES WITH TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE COLON DIALYSIS FOR MAFLD MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a complex multi-system metabolic disorder, inflicts chronic harm upon the liver, progressing from hepatic steatosis to severe conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma. This ailment, previously referred to as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is intricately linked to metabolic dysfunctions induced by factors such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome. In recognition of the substantial role of metabolic dysfunction, NAFLD was renamed MAFLD in 2020. MAFLD has emerged as a prevalent global chronic liver ailment, with its prevalence steadily increasing from 25% in 2016 to 32% in 2022. Presently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any specific drugs for MAFLD treatment, underscoring the challenge posed by its heterogeneity and intricate pathology. The primary focus of MAFLD treatment is centered on managing liver diseases, addressing metabolic syndrome, and mitigating complications. This approach aims to reduce liver fat accumulation, alleviate inflammatory damage induced by fat oxidation, and hinder the progression of hepatitis and liver fibrosis.