Multi-omics exploration in obesity and steatohepatitis: dysfunctional signals in the liver-adipose tissue axis

Identifier:  TDX:4516

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX4516

Authors:  Castañé Vilafranca, Helena

Abstract:
Obesity is a critical global health issue, strongly linked to metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its more severe form, metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). This thesis explores the complex interactions between severe obesity, adipose tissue dysfunction, and liver disease. Through a series of studies, we identified genetic markers, evaluated the role of paraoxonase-1 (PON1), analyzed organokines, and investigated metabolic profiles, focusing on the contributions of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and liver dysfunction in MASH development. The results highlight the pivotal role of VAT in the pathogenesis of MASH in severely obese individuals. Despite the insights gained, the utility of these biomarkers for non-invasive diagnosis remains limited, although multi-omics approaches show promise for more comprehensive diagnostic strategies.