The Role of Innate Immune Cells in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a very common hepatic pathology featuring steatosis and is linked to obesity and related conditions, such as the metabolic syndrome. When hepatic steatosis is accompanied by inflammation, the disorder is defined as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which in turn can progress toward fibrosis development that can ultimately result in cirrhosis. Cells of innate immunity, such as neutrophils or macrophages, are central regulators of NASH-related inflammation. Recent studies utilizing new experimental technologies, such as single-cell RNA sequencing, have revealed substantial heterogeneity within the macrophage populations of the liver, suggesting distinct functions of liver-resident Kupffer cells and recruited monocyte-derived macrophages with regards to regulation of liver inflammation and progression of NASH pathogenesis. Herein, we discuss recent developments concerning the function of innate immune cell subsets in NAFLD and NASH.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)31-41
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of innate immunity
Volume14
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 24 Jan 2022
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 34515137

Keywords

Sustainable Development Goals

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Keywords

  • Inflammation, Macrophages, Neutrophils, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease