The Role of the Microbiome and Intestinal Mucosal Barrier in the Development and Progression of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Abstract

Aim. To review available data on the role of the microbiome and intestinal mucosal barrier in the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).Key points. The role of the human microbiome in the development and progression of NAFLD is associated with its effects on the risk factors (obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes), permeability of the intestinal barrier and absorption of such substances as short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, choline and endogenous ethanol. Liver fibrosis constitutes the leading factor determining the prognosis of patients in NAFLD, including cases associated with cardiovascular complications. Changes in the microbiome composition were demonstrated for various degrees of fibrosis in NAFLD.Conclusion. The results of modern studies confirm the formation of a new concept in the pathophysiology of NAFLD, which encourages the development of new therapeutic strategies.

Keywords

• intestinal mucosal barrier
• non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• fibrosis
• microbiota