📰 Breakthrough Drug Targets Root Cause of Deadly Fatty Liver Disease, Study Finds
A groundbreaking medical discovery is offering new hope to millions of people living with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) — a severe and potentially deadly form of fatty liver disease linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine have developed an investigational drug, ION224, that directly targets the DGAT2 enzyme — a key player in the liver’s fat production process. By blocking this enzyme, the drug significantly reduces fat accumulation and inflammation, the two main drivers of liver damage in MASH.
🔬 How the Treatment Works
DGAT2 Enzyme Blockade – Prevents the liver from producing and storing excess fat.
Inflammation Reduction – Stops the chain reaction that leads to scarring and liver failure.
Weight-Independent Benefits – Works even without major weight loss, making it compatible with other treatments.
📊 Clinical Trial Results
In a Phase IIb clinical trial involving 160 adults with MASH and early to moderate fibrosis:
60% of patients on the highest dose showed significant liver health improvement.
No serious side effects were linked to the drug.
Benefits were observed regardless of body weight changes.
🌍 Why This Matters
MASH, also known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is often called a “silent killer” because it can progress for years without symptoms. If untreated, it can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
Globally, 1 in 4 adults may have some form of fatty liver disease, making this breakthrough a potential game-changer for public health.
💬 Expert Insight
“By blocking DGAT2, we’re interrupting the disease process at its root cause,” said Dr. Rohit Loomba, lead investigator of the study.
🏥 The Road Ahead
While ION224 is still in the investigational stage, these results mark a pivotal step toward the first targeted therapy for MASH. Larger trials will determine its long-term safety and effectiveness, but the early data is promising.
Fatty Liver Disease Treatment, MASH Cure, NASH Breakthrough, DGAT2 Inhibitor, UC San Diego Liver Study, ION224 Drug, Liver Health News, Obesity Related Liver Disease
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