Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in the treatment of fatty liver disease by identifying microRNA-93 as a key genetic driver and uncovering the potential of vitamin B3, also known as niacin, in suppressing it. This discovery offers hope for millions worldwide struggling with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), a condition that previously lacked targeted therapies.
A collaborative effort led by Professor Jang Hyun Choi from UNIST, along with researchers from Pusan National University and Ulsan University Hospital, unveiled the role of microRNA-93 in the development and progression of MASLD. This specialized RNA molecule was found to exacerbate lipid accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis in the liver by suppressing the expression of a crucial gene involved in lipid metabolism, known as SIRT1.
Experiments involving gene editing techniques in mice revealed a significant reduction in hepatic fat accumulation and improved liver function upon eliminating miR-93 production. Conversely, mice with elevated levels of miR-93 exhibited worsened metabolic function, highlighting the molecule’s detrimental impact on liver health.
Further investigations identified niacin as the most effective FDA-approved drug in suppressing miR-93. Treatment with niacin led to a notable decrease in miR-93 levels in the liver, accompanied by increased SIRT1 activity. The activated SIRT1, in turn, normalized disrupted lipid metabolism pathways, restoring liver lipid homeostasis.
The research team emphasized the clinical significance of their findings, suggesting that repurposing niacin as a treatment for MASLD holds promise due to its established safety profile and efficacy in targeting miRNA pathways. This study, supported by various research organizations, sheds light on a potential new avenue for combating a prevalent liver disease with a common vitamin supplement.
Published in the journal Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental, this groundbreaking research underscores the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. With the potential for niacin to modulate this pathway, the study paves the way for innovative therapeutic approaches in the management of fatty liver disease.
In a world where liver disorders affect a significant portion of the population, this discovery offers hope for a safe and affordable treatment option that could revolutionize the way we approach and manage fatty liver disease on a global scale.
📰 Related Articles
- Ultrasound Therapy Shows Promise in Treating Liver Cancer: Study
- Ultrasound Attenuation Coefficient: Key Advancement in Liver Disease Diagnosis
- Researchers Uncover Groundbreaking Physics Discovery with Ultrasound and Droplets
- Researchers Uncover Earth’s Oldest Meteorite Impact Crater in Australia
- Penguin Guano’s Role in Climate Regulation Unveiled by Researchers