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The Metabolic Role of the Microbiome: Implications for NAFLD and the Metabolic Syndrome
How Gut Bacteria Affect Metabolism and Relate to Fatty Liver Disease and Metabolic Syndrome
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Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rapidly becoming one of the most common liver diseases globally and could reach epidemic proportions if obesity trends continue.
- A significant body of animal research indicates that the gut microbiome plays a substantial role in the metabolism related to obesity and its complications, including NAFLD.
- The contribution of a disordered microbial population to the development of NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatosis (NASH) is supported by various findings.
- Key unresolved questions include the specific nature and location of the altered microbiome, whether it is confined to the small intestine, colon, or both.
- Deficits in intestinal integrity may be specific to NAFLD/NASH rather than liver disease in general.
- Understanding the metabolic pathways in humans that are influenced by the microbiome is still an area requiring further investigation.
- Although interventions targeting the microbiome show promise, they are not yet ready for clinical application.
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