Systematic Review Evaluates GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Efficacy in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now termed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is a global health crisis affecting 30% of the population. It ranges from simple fat accumulation to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or MASH, characterized by inflammation and fibrosis, potentially leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Current treatments are limited, often focusing on lifestyle changes. Given the strong links between MASLD and metabolic disorders like obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), therapies targeting these underlying metabolic dysfunctions, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), are being actively investigated for their potential to improve liver outcomes. This review addresses the urgent need for effective pharmacological interventions.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate the therapeutic effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in patients with MASLD and MASH. Researchers systematically searched relevant databases to identify clinical trials and observational studies investigating GLP-1RA interventions for these liver conditions. The methodology involved a structured approach to screen, select, and extract data from eligible studies, followed by a meta-analysis to synthesize quantitative findings. Specific inclusion/exclusion criteria, search terms, and the number of included studies were not detailed in the provided abstract snippet, but the objective was to provide a robust summary of the current evidence.