From:  Liver and obesity: a narrative review

 Key research and implementation priorities for obesity-related liver disease

Implementation priorityAction required
Refining obesity phenotypingThere is a clear need for robust classification methods that integrate metabolic, anthropometric, and genomic information to better distinguish obesity subtypes and predict liver disease risk. The incorporation of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI-based proton density fat fraction (PDFF) measurement, may further refine these stratifications.
Clarifying the gut-liver axisResearch is needed to understand how dysbiosis, increased intestinal permeability, and altered bile acid signaling contribute to liver inflammation and fibrosis. Future investigations should explore whether interventions like probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation can confer durable benefits.
Long-term evaluations of emerging therapiesNumerous drugs targeting pathways from insulin resistance (IR) to fibrogenesis are under development. Longitudinal studies examining how these agents influence outcomes, especially cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, are vital, as are evaluations of combination therapies that may yield synergy without excessive toxicity.
Cost-effective, patient-centered models of careIntegrating novel diagnostics and treatments into clinical practice must be balanced against cost considerations. Research is necessary to explore how best to incorporate telemedicine, digital health tools, and multidisciplinary teams in ways that optimize patient adherence and outcomes while minimizing healthcare expenditures.
Preventive and public health strategiesEffective management of obesity-related liver disease also requires upstream interventions that address environmental and socio-economic factors underpinning obesity itself. Enhanced public policies, improved nutritional labeling, and community-based programs have the potential to reduce the overall disease burden if implemented broadly and supported through sustained funding.