EMERGING HEPATOPROTECTIVE THERAPIES FOR LIVER DISEASE: CURRENT PROGRESS AND FUTURE DIRECTION

Abstract

Due to their complex and multifaceted character, liver diseases represent a huge global health burden and contribute considerably to morbidity and mortality globally. Although the liver is essential for detoxification, protein synthesis, metabolic equilibrium, and biochemical regulation, it is extremely vulnerable to damage due to ongoing exposure to chemicals, medications, and infections. Hepatocellular carcinoma, alcoholic liver disease, fibrosis, cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and cirrhosis are among the liver diseases that frequently proceed asymptomatically and are identified at advanced stages, which limits the effectiveness of treatment. Interconnected processes including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and immunological dysregulation are involved in the pathogenesis of liver injury. The main goals of conventional therapy approaches, such as liver transplantation, medication, and lifestyle changes, are to control symptoms and halt the course of the disease. However, they are not very effective at correcting extensive liver damage and may have negative side effects. Emerging hepatoprotective treatments that target several molecular pathways have been made possible by recent developments. Targeted pharmacological medicines (such as PPAR, FXR, and thyroid hormone receptor-β agonists), natural bioactive substances, drug delivery methods based on nanotechnology, gene and RNA-based therapies, stem cell-based regenerative techniques, immunotherapy, and gut microbiome modification are some of these. When assessing these treatments, experimental models such as those caused by CCl₄, paracetamol, alcohol, and diet-induced liver impairment are crucial. Furthermore, despite ongoing obstacles like a lack of trustworthy biomarkers, translational gaps, high prices, and regulatory restrictions, clinical trials and translational research are crucial for confirming their safety and efficacy. In order to improve therapeutic outcomes, future hepatoprotective techniques will prioritize multi-targeted approaches, personalized medicine, and the integration of omics technology and artificial intelligence. Despite tremendous advancements, more study and interdisciplinary cooperation are needed to get past current obstacles and provide medicines that are accessible, safe, and effective. All things considered, new hepatoprotective treatments have great potential to improve liver regeneration, restore hepatic function, and lower the prevalence of liver illnesses worldwide.