Gut Hormones Offer New Hope in Combating Fatty Liver Disease

A study highlights the role of gut hormones in reducing liver fat accumulation by influencing intestinal fat absorption.

Researchers at Fujita Health University discovered that proglucagon-derived peptides (PGDPs) like glucagon, GLP-1, and GLP-2 are crucial in regulating fat metabolism in the liver.
Genetically modified mice lacking these hormones showed reduced fat absorption in the intestines and less fat buildup in the liver, even on a high-fat diet.
The study found decreased expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation in the intestines of these mice, suggesting lower fat uptake and increased fecal cholesterol.
Changes in gut microbiota, including increased Parabacteroides and decreased Lactobacillus, were observed, indicating potential resistance to obesity.
Future therapies may focus on targeting gut hormones to improve insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism, offering a promising strategy for treating obesity and fatty liver disease.