World journal of gastroenterologyDec 30, 2024

New treatments targeting GLP-1 and related receptors for fatty liver disease linked to metabolism problems

GLP-1 Therapies Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Jan 20, 2026

Abstract

The global prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is estimated at 32.4%.

MASLD, which includes metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), is linked to increased metabolic, cardiovascular, and cancer-related health issues.
Progression to fibrotic stages of MASLD is strongly associated with liver-related mortality.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown efficacy in managing MASH, though with limited improvement in liver fibrosis.
Recent studies on tirzepatide and survodutide indicate higher rates of MASH resolution and improvement in fibrosis compared to earlier treatments.
Gastrointestinal side effects remain a significant concern regarding the tolerability of these medications.

Simplified

The global prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is estimated at 32.4%, reflecting its growing clinical significance. MASLD, which includes MASLD and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) has been linked to increased metabolic, cardiovascular, and malignant morbidity. Progression into fibrotic stages of MASLD is also strongly associated with liver-related mortality. The past few years have seen a heightened focus on creating innovative therapeutic strategies for MASH management. GLP-1 receptor agonists (RA) have also emerged as a potential treatment option. Studies on GLP-1 agonists, such as liraglutide and semaglutide, have demonstrated efficacy in MASH management, albeit with limited histological improvement of fibrosis. However, recent investigations into GLP-1/GIP RA (tirzepatide) and Glucagon/GLP-1 RA (survodutide) have shown even more encouraging results, with higher rates of MASH resolution and fibrosis improvement. The tolerability of these medications due to their gastrointestinal side effects remains a major concern. Future research should focus on optimizing drug regimens, identifying patients most likely to benefit, and balancing efficacy with tolerability. The evolving landscape of MASH therapeutics suggests a bright future, with the potential for combination therapies to further enhance patient outcomes.

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Conflict-of-interest statement: All the authors report no relevant conflicts of interest for this article.

PubMed

New treatments targeting GLP-1 and related receptors for fatty liver disease linked to metabolism problems

Abstract

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Abstract

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