(Epi)Genetic Alterations and Their Physiological Consequences in Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Crucial Step Towards Precision Medicine in MASLD

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as NAFLD, stands as the most prevalent chronic liver condition escalating in global incidence alongside metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes. This rise is partly attributed to dietary and lifestyle factors such as insufficient physical activity. Yet, an equally important role is held by (epi)genetic factors, including transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, which also plays a crucial role in explaining the differences in MASLD rates among populations Research has highlighted how genetic variation affects gene accessibility and expression, significantly altering physiological processes such as cell growth and environmental response. In MASLD, such (epi)genetic mechanisms are known to disrupt metabolic pathways, fostering lipid accumulation, inflammation, and cellular damage in hepatic cells. This connection underscores the critical role (epi)genetics plays in the pathogenesis of MASLD and its potential as a focal point for precision medicine in the development of targeted treatments and preventative measures. This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding of (epi)genetic regulation in MASLD through the collection of original research, reviews, mini-reviews, and perspective articles exploring (epi)genetic-based physiological regulation, intervention, and therapy for MASLD. pioneering research and comprehensive reviews. Potential areas of interest include, but are not limited to: • Impact of (Epi)genetic Changes on Hepatic Glucose Metabolism in MASLD • How (Epi)genetics Regulate Inflammatory Pathways in MASLD • Role of (Epi)genetic in Liver Fat Metabolism and MASLD Pathophysiology • (Epi)Genetic Biomarkers for MASLD • Novel methodologies to study (epi)genetic changes in MASLD • Genome-wide (epi)genetic changes including expression-based polygenic risk (ePRS) studies in MASLD • Genetic variants altering epigenetics related to MASLD • The role and impact of (epi)genetic mechanisms in MASLD onset and progression • Influence of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance on MASLD risk • New treatment approaches targeting or incorporating (epi)genetic markers in MASLD Topic editors: Kapil Upadhyay, SONIA MICHAEL NAJJAR, Antonio Marcus de Andrade Paes, Graham Brady Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/65379/epigenetic-alterations-and-their-physiological-consequences-in-metabolic-dysfunction-associated-steatotic-liver-disease-a-crucial-step-towards-precision-medicine-in-masld