The role of fibroblast growth factor 19 in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Abstract

Introduction Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the predominant cause of chronic liver injury worldwide. Bile acids and their receptors are profoundly implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and its progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis. Areas covered We conducted extensive literature search using PubMed database and we summarized the relevant literature. We provided an overview of the fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF-19)–farnesoid X receptor (FXR) axis and summarized the latest findings derived from animal and human studies concerning the impact of FGF-19 on NAFLD. Expert opinion FGF-19, a nutritionally regulated endocrine post-prandial hormone, governs bile acid metabolism, lipid oxidation, lipogenesis, and energy homeostasis. As no approved medication for NAFLD exists, FGF-19 seems to be a propitious therapeutic opportunity for NAFLD, since its administration was associated with ameliorated results in hepatic steatosis, liver inflammation and fibrosis. Furthermore, promising results have been derived from clinical trials concerning the beneficial efficacy of FGF-19 on histological findings and laboratory parameters of NAFLD. However, we should bear in mind the pleiotropic effects of FGF-19 on various metabolically active tissues along with its potential tumorigenic reservoir. Further clinical research is required to determine the clinical application of FGF-19-based therapies on NAFLD.