Researchers have identified a protein called ENT1 that may play an important role in the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition in which excess fat builds up in the liver.
The findings offer a new lead for understanding how this common liver condition develops and progresses. The research involved human liver samples and animal models, and the results could help guide the search for future treatments.
How ENT1 May Affect the Liver
ENT1 is a transport protein that helps small molecules called nucleosides move into cells. One of these molecules, adenosine, plays a role in inflammation and how cells respond to stress.
In experiments, mice lacking ENT1 had lower liver adenosine levels and showed greater protection against fat accumulation, inflammation and fibrosis. They also demonstrated better glucose tolerance and improved insulin sensitivity.
Researchers examining human liver samples found that ENT1 levels were higher during the earlier stages of MASLD and tended to decrease as the disease progressed. In people with early-stage disease, higher ENT1 expression was associated with higher insulin levels and greater insulin resistance.
Could This Lead to a New Treatment?
The findings identify ENT1 as a possible target for future therapies. Although drugs that inhibit this protein exist, they have not been established as treatments for fatty liver disease based on this research.
Much of the evidence for protection against liver damage comes from animal experiments. Further clinical studies are needed to determine whether targeting ENT1 could safely help prevent or treat MASLD in humans.
For now, the discovery offers a promising new direction for research rather than an immediately available treatment.
