Exploring Secreted Frizzled Related Protein-4 (SFRP-4) As an Indicator for Differential Diagnosis of Fatty Liver Diseases

Abstract

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), has emerged as a prevalent liver condition globally, closely associated with the rising obesity epidemic. Despite its increasing prevalence, there remains a notable absence of pharmacological treatments tailored specifically for MAFLD. This therapeutic gap can be attributed to the complex nature of MAFLD, characterized by a limited understanding of its underlying mechanisms, insufficiently accurate and affordable imaging techniques, and the lack of non-invasive biomarkers for effective diagnosis and monitoring.

This review examines current diagnostic modalities for MAFLD, with a focus on the growing importance of non-coding RNAs as promising diagnostic biomarkers. The urgent need for non-invasive biomarkers, alongside accurate and cost-effective diagnostic tools, is emphasized, as they play a crucial role in detecting early signs of MAFLD progression. These advancements hold the potential to expedite clinical trials and validate emerging therapeutic approaches, thereby facilitating the development of improved management strategies for MAFLD patients.