The molecular basis for current targets of NASH therapies.

The molecular basis for current targets of NASH therapies. Expert Opin Investig Drugs. 2019 Dec 17;: Authors: Qureshi K, Neuschwander-Tetri BA Abstract Introduction Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a leading cause of liver disease in children and adults, a major contributor to healthcare expenditures, and now a leading reason for liver transplantation. Adopting lifestyle modifications with regular exercise and a focus on health eating habits is the primary recommendation. However, patients are often unable to achieve and sustain such changes for a variety of social, physical, psychological and genetic reasons. Thus, treatments that can prevent and reverse NASH and its associated fibrosis are a major focus of current drug development.Areas covered This review covers the current understanding of lipotoxic liver injury in the pathogenesis of NASH and how lifestyle modification and the spectrum of drugs currently in clinical trials address the many pathways leading to the phenotype of NASH.Expert opinion Contrary to the frequently expressed nihilistic view of our understanding of NASH and disappointment with clinical trial results, much is known about the pathogenesis of NASH and there is much reason to be optimistic that effective therapies will be identified in the next 5-10 years. Achieving this will require continued refinement of clinical trial endpoints, continued engagement of trial sponsors and regulatory authorities, and c...
Source: Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Expert Opin Investig Drugs Source Type: research