Iron metabolism and ferroptosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: what is our next step?

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease with increasing prevalence worldwide. NAFLD could develop from simple hepatic steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), NASH-related fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the mechanism of NAFLD development has not yet been fully defined. Recently, emerging evidence shows that the dysregulated iron metabolism marked by elevated serum ferritin, and ferroptosis are involved in the NAFLD. Understanding iron metabolism and ferroptosis can shed light on the mechanisms of NAFLD development. Here, we summarized studies on iron metabolism and the ferroptosis process involved in NAFLD development to highlight potential medications and therapies for treating NAFLD.