Jena, Germany – A groundbreaking study has revealed that the composition of the gut microbiome can accurately predict the presence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Led by researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), the study identified specific microbial signatures that distinguish NAFLD patients from those without the condition, even in the presence of other metabolic disorders.
NAFLD, characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver, affects millions worldwide and can lead to serious liver complications. While its exact causes remain unclear, the gut microbiome has emerged as a significant contributing factor.
By analyzing data from over 1,200 individuals with various metabolic conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure, the researchers identified unique patterns of gut bacteria associated with NAFLD. These signatures, coupled with machine learning models, achieved a diagnostic accuracy exceeding 90%.
“The study confirmed that the gut microbiome, in essence, leaves a ‘fingerprint’ that can be used to diagnose NAFLD with high precision,” explained study leader Gianni Panagiotou. “This is particularly valuable in cases where NAFLD co-occurs with other metabolic diseases, making diagnosis challenging.”
The research utilized advanced ecological network analysis to understand the intricate interactions between different gut microbes. These analyses revealed specific microbial networks directly linked to NAFLD development, providing deeper insights into the disease mechanisms.
These findings have significant implications for future NAFLD treatment. “Personalized therapies targeting the gut microbiome, such as the administration of specific microbial consortia, could be developed based on these unique signatures,” said Panagiotou.
The study emphasizes the crucial role of the gut microbiome in human health and the potential for personalized medicine approaches to address complex metabolic diseases like NAFLD.
Source: Emmanouil Nychas et al, Discovery of robust and highly specific microbiome signatures of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Microbiome (2025). DOI: 10.1186/s40168-024-01990-y
Disclaimer: This news article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.