Published online Jan 28, 2023. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i4.597
Peer-review started: September 19, 2022
First decision: October 22, 2022
Revised: October 28, 2022
Accepted: November 7, 2022
Article in press: November 7, 2022
Published online: January 28, 2023
Processing time: 122 Days and 17.3 Hours
In recent years, there has been a steady growth of interest in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is associated with negative epidemiological data on the prevalence of the disease and its clinical significance. NAFLD is closely related to the metabolic syndrome and these relationships are the subject of active research. A growing body of evidence shows cross-linkages between metabolic abnormalities and the innate immune system in the development and progression of NAFLD. These links are bidirectional and largely still unclear, but a better understanding of them will improve the quality of diagnosis and management of patients. In addition, lipid metabolic disorders and the innate immune system link NAFLD with other diseases, such as atherosclerosis, which is of great clinical importance.
Core Tip: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an important medical and social problem. The development of NAFLD is closely related to the metabolic syndrome, which further increases attention to the problem. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is complex and involves closely intertwined metabolic and immune mechanisms, a better understanding of which will improve the effectiveness of measures to prevent and treat the disease. Lipid metabolism has multiple connections with the innate immune system, in which various liver cells are involved.