Drug Advances in NAFLD: Individual and Combination Treatment Strategies of Natural Products and Small-Synthetic-Molecule Drugs

Biomolecules. 2025 Jan 17;15(1):140. doi: 10.3390/biom15010140.

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease and is closely associated with metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and metabolic syndrome. However, effective treatment strategies for NAFLD are still lacking. In recent years, progress has been made in understanding the pathogenesis of NAFLD, identifying multiple therapeutic targets and providing new directions for drug development. This review summarizes the recent advances in the treatment of NAFLD, focusing on the mechanisms of action of natural products, small-synthetic-molecule drugs, and combination therapy strategies. This review aims to provide new insights and strategies in treating NAFLD.

Keywords: NAFLD; natural products; small-synthetic-molecule drugs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Products* / chemistry
  • Biological Products* / pharmacology
  • Biological Products* / therapeutic use
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Humans
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / drug therapy
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease* / metabolism

Substances

  • Biological Products