An Update on the Role of the Microbiome in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

AbstractThe microbiome was originally postulated to contribute to the pathogenesis of NAFLD when the first studies of dysbiosis in NAFLD were reported. Since then, a number of studies have investigated this finding further, in order to discern whether the dysbiosis is the result of the metabolic dysregulation seen with NAFLD or a contributor to the pathogenesis of this condition.Purpose of reviewThis review is aimed at highlighting the most important discoveries from the years 2017 –2019 that linked the microbiome to the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of NAFLD.Recent findingsRecent data have revealed further the role of bacterially derived ethanol in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, the crosstalk between microbiome and the gut barrier, and the interplay between genetic risk and dysbiosis.SummaryThe microbiome is involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD in a subset of patients and can be used as a therapeutic target.
Source: Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology - Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research