Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is characterized by hepatic steatosis accompanied by cardiometabolic risk factors, including elevated body mass index, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, in the absence of significant alcohol consumption. With the current global incidence exceeding 30%, it is often driven by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Although recent advances in molecular biology, biotechnology, and pharmacology have revealed numerous animal models, mechanisms, and potential drug targets that enhance our understanding of this disease, decades of target exploration and hundreds of clinical trials have failed due to issues related to safety, efficacy, and the intricate pathogenesis of MASLD. Consequently, there is an urgent need to investigate critical mechanisms, identify novel drug targets, and develop innovative approaches for further preclinical practice.

The objective of this research topic is to address the pressing challenge of MASLD by elucidating novel pathogenesis, identifying targets, and exploring innovative preclinical models and therapeutic approaches. By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations among researchers, we aim to discuss cutting-edge models that simulate human metabolic disorders, pinpoint potential drug targets, and investigate new translational pharmacological compounds and treatment modalities. Furthermore, this research topic will facilitate discussions on the integration of precision medicine approaches. Achieving these objectives will require contributions from diverse fields, including pharmacology, biochemistry, endocrinology, and clinical research, thereby promoting a comprehensive understanding of this multifaceted issue.

This research topic invites contributions that encompass a variety of themes related to MASLD and progressive diseases, such as metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Innovative or modified pre-clinical models and validation for drug screening and mechanistic studies.
• Identification of potential drug targets and novel mechanisms involved in MASLD or MASH.
• Exploration of novel compounds, treatment modalities, and innovative or personalized therapeutic approaches for MASLD or MASH in both pre-clinical and clinical contexts.

We welcome Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Brief Research Report, Case Report, Clinical Trial, General Commentary, Hypothesis and Theory, Methods, Opinion, Perspective that align with these themes. Authors are encouraged to submit manuscripts that present new findings, theoretical frameworks, or critical insights into the development of therapies for MASLD.

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Frontiers in Pharmacology

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