Research questions: Metabolic-associated steatosis liver disease (MASLD), as the new name for non – alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), still requires a comprehensive elucidation of its complex pathophysiological mechanisms, diverse clinical phenotypes, and the synergistic effects with metabolic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. In large-scale population cohorts, how to accurately identify susceptible populations, make early diagnoses, and effectively intervene to block disease progression remains a key scientific issue that urgently needs to be addressed. How does the genetic basis of MASLD affect its occurrence and development? What is the interaction mechanism between different metabolic disorders (such as obesity, diabetes) and MASLD? Do significant differences exist in the clinical characteristics and prognosis of MASLD patients under different BMI classifications (e.g., lean vs. overweight/obese)? What are the effectiveness and limitations of existing diagnostic markers and
treatment strategies in the real world?
Research objectives: This study aims to utilize the large-scale, multi-dimensional, and prospective population cohort data of the UK Biobank to deeply analyze the pathological mechanisms, clinical characteristics of Metabolic-associated steatosis liver disease (MASLD), and its association with cardiometabolic diseases. On this basis, potential diagnostic and treatment strategies will be explored.
Scientific rational: MAFLD involves complex pathological mechanisms centered on hepatic steatosis, linked to insulin resistance, inflammation/oxidative stress, lipid metabolism disorders, and gut-liver axis dysfunction. Clinically, it ranges from asymptomatic to advanced liver disease, associates with metabolic diseases, includes lean cases (BMI<25), and increases cardiovascular risk and sarcopenia likelihood.
