2024/10/29 by Baines, Emily
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Medicine · #Epigenetics and DNA Methylation #Liver Disease Diagnosis and Treatment #Sirtuins and Resveratrol in Medicine
paper · doi:10.14288/cjur.v9i2.200106
openalex publication_date 2024/10/29 · openalex created_date 2025/11/28 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/01
An ever-increasing rise in the occurrence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) presents a need to understand its development and progression with a goal of advancing novel treatment options. Epigenetics encompasses numerous modifications that mediate gene regulation amidst diverse genetic and environmental conditions. Specifically, histone methylations play a key role in the regulation of lipogenic gene expression and, like other epigenetic modifications, are inherently reversible. This presents an array of options for therapeutic intervention. This review explores the roles of specific histone demethylases and their dynamic relationships with transcription factors and target genes involved in NAFLD. I summarize how, in addition to enhancing disease progression, these histone modifications can conversely act to protect from harmful side effects of this disease. I suggest areas of future investigation into additional transcription and epigenetic factors that have yet to be studied in this context and are necessary to further our understanding of NAFLD and to develop novel treatment options.