Targeting the Skeletal Muscle to Treat Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Targeting Myosteatosis Though Physical Exercise to Treat Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Muscle changes including myosteatosis are reported as highly prevalent in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Recent studies highlighted a link between muscle fat content and liver disease severity. Conversely, MASLD histological remission though diet or metabolic surgeries is also linked to a decrease in muscle fat content. Therefore, skeletal muscle appears as a potential target to treat MASLD.

In this monocenter interventional study, we will assess the impact of physical activity on muscle fat content and liver disease severity in MASLD as well as the mechanisms mediating the potential beneficial effects of exercise.

Inclusion Criteria:

• confirmed MASLD at abdominal imaging
• confirmed excessive muscle lipid content at imaging
• stable weight

Exclusion Criteria:

• severe comorbidities including active malignancies, neuromuscular degenerative diseases
• contraindications to physical activity
• excessive alcohol consumption