Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease - Summary - MDSpire

Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

  • By

  • Kuo Fang

  • Ji Miao

  • Guobin Song

  • June 5, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To summarize the roles of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) in the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, as indicated by recent studies.

Key Findings:
  • IGFBP1 and IGFBP2 promote lipid oxidation and increase insulin sensitivity, as supported by recent studies.
  • IGFBP3 and IGFBP5 restrain lipogenesis early but promote hepatocellular injury and stellate cell activation during fibrosis, according to recent findings.
  • IGFBP7 impairs insulin signaling, drives ferroptosis, and fosters fibrosis, as indicated by current research.
  • IGFBP4 and IGFBP6 are less well characterized in the context of MASLD, requiring further investigation.
Interpretation:

The review emphasizes the complex roles of IGFBPs in MASLD, suggesting their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, as indicated by the findings.

Limitations:
  • The roles of IGFBP4 and IGFBP6 in MASLD are not well characterized, necessitating further research.
  • Current understanding of IGFBPs in MASLD is based on emerging evidence and may require further validation from additional studies.
Conclusion:

The review provides a comprehensive summary of IGFBPs' contributions to MASLD, indicating their potential roles in disease progression and as therapeutic targets, as supported by recent findings.

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