World Journal of

WJ H Hepatology
Submit a Manuscript: https://www.f6publishing.com World J Hepatol 2023 August 27; 15(8): 1001-1012

DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v15.i8.1001 ISSN 1948-5182 (online)

SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS

Emerging therapeutic options for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A

systematic review

Jasmine Tidwell, Natalie Balassiano, Anjiya Shaikh, Mahmoud Nassar

Specialty type: Gastroenterology Jasmine Tidwell, Anjiya Shaikh, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut,
and hepatology Farmington, CT 06032, United States

Provenance and peer review: Natalie Balassiano, Department of Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount
Invited article; Externally peer Sinai/NYC Health+Hospitals/Queens, New York, NY 11432, United States
reviewed.
Mahmoud Nassar, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and
Peer-review model: Single blind Metabolism, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Buffalo,
Buffalo, NY 14221, United States
Peer-review report’s scientific
quality classification Corresponding author: Mahmoud Nassar, MD, MSc, PhD, Doctor, Department of Internal
Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Jacobs School of Medicine
Grade A (Excellent): 0
and Biomedical Sciences, University of Buffalo, WNY 705 Maple Road, Williamsville,
Grade B (Very good): B
Buffalo, NY 14221, United States. [email protected]
Grade C (Good): C, C, C
Grade D (Fair): 0
Grade E (Poor): 0
Abstract
P-Reviewer: Li H, China; Pham BACKGROUND
TTT, Viet Nam; Zamani M, Iran Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a prevalent cause of
chronic liver disease and ranks third among the causes of transplantation. In the
Received: April 30, 2023
United States alone, annual medical costs are approximately 100 billion dollars.
Peer-review started: April 30, 2023 Unfortunately, there is no Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medi-
First decision: June 7, 2023 cation for its treatment. However, various clinical trials are investigating several
Revised: June 18, 2023 therapeutic classes that could potentially treat NAFLD. It is valuable to have a
Accepted: August 7, 2023 compilation of the data available on their efficacy.
Article in press: August 7, 2023
Published online: August 27, 2023
AIM
To assess the efficacy of cyclophilin inhibitors, fibroblast growth factor 21 analogs
(FGF21), and dual and pan peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)
agonists for treating NAFLD.

METHODS
A comprehensive literature search using keywords including cyclophilin
inhibitor, FGF agonist, pan-PPAR agonists, dual-PPAR agonist, NAFLD, non-
alcoholic steatohepatitis, and fatty liver was conducted on October 29, 2022, in
PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science. Animal and
human research, case reports, and published articles in English from all countries
with patients aged 18 and above were included. Only articles with a National
Institutes of Health (NIH) Quality Assessment score of five or higher out of eight
points were included. Articles that were narrative or systematic reviews,

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Tidwell J et al. Emerging therapeutic options for NAFLD

abstracts, not in English, focused on patients under 18 years old, did not measure outcomes of interest, were
inaccessible, or had a low NIH Quality Assessment score were excluded. Each article was screened by two
independent researchers evaluating relevance and quality. Resources were scored based on the NIH Quality
Assessment Score; then, pertinent data was extracted in a spreadsheet and descriptively analyzed.

RESULTS
Of the 681 records screened, 29 met the necessary criteria and were included in this review. These records included
12 human studies and 17 animal studies. Specifically, there were four studies on cyclophilin inhibitors, four on FGF
agonists/analogs, eleven on pan-PPAR agonists, and ten on dual-PPAR agonists. Different investigational products
were assessed: The most common cyclophilin inhibitor was NV556; FGF agonists and analogs was Efruxifermin;
pan-PPAR agonists was Lanifibranor; and dual-PPAR agonists was Saroglitazar. All classes were found to be
statistically efficacious for the treatment of NAFLD, with animal studies demonstrating improvement in steatosis
and/or fibrosis on biopsy and human studies evidencing improvement in different metabolic parameters and/or
steatosis and fibrosis on FibroScan (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION
The data analyzed in this review showed clinically significant improvement in individual histological features of
NAFLD in both animal and human trials for all four classes, as well as good safety profiles (P < 0.05). We believe
this compilation of information will have positive clinical implications in obtaining an FDA-approved therapy for
NAFLD.

Key Words: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; Cyclophilin inhibitors; Fibroblast growth factor 21
analogs; Dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists; Pan peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists

©The Author(s) 2023. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.

Core Tip: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a significant global health issue. There is no medication
approved by the Federal Drug Administration for the treatment of NAFLD. However, there are several therapeutic classes
currently being studied in clinical trials. In this systematic review, we analyze the scientific data of cyclophilin inhibitors,
fibroblast growth factor 21 analogs, and dual and pan peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists for the treatment of
NAFLD.

Citation: Tidwell J, Balassiano N, Shaikh A, Nassar M. Emerging therapeutic options for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A
systematic review. World J Hepatol 2023; 15(8): 1001-1012
URL: https://www.wjgnet.com/1948-5182/full/v15/i8/1001.htm
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4254/wjh.v15.i8.1001

INTRODUCTION
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent chronic liver disease affecting approximately 30% of the world's
population[1]. It is characterized by the buildup of more than 5% of fat in hepatocyte histology[1]. NAFLD encompasses a
range of conditions, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and cirrhosis[2].
NAFL is defined as hepatic steatosis without inflammation, based on liver biopsy histology[2].
Approximately 20% of patients with NAFL will develop NASH, which is the presence of hepatic steatosis, lobular
inflammation, and hepatocyte ballooning[1,2]. This persistent liver cell injury leads to progressive fibrosis and cirrhosis in
approximately 10%–20% of patients, converting NAFLD into the quickest-growing cause of hepatocellular carcinoma
(HCC)[1,3]. NAFLD is currently liver transplantation's third most common cause[1]. Unlike other causes of HCC, which
start with fibrosis, up to one-third of patients with NASH and HCC are non-cirrhotic and are more advanced, making
treatment difficult[3].
NAFLD is a liver condition that is closely linked with metabolic syndrome[1]. It is often seen in people who have type
2 diabetes, are insulin resistant, have high levels of triglycerides and cholesterol, and are obese[1]. The main risk factors
for developing NAFLD are a diet high in fats and sugars and a sedentary lifestyle[1]. Some experts have started using
metabolic-associate fatty liver disease to describe this condition because of its strong link with metabolic dysfunction.
Still, for clarity purposes, we will stick with the NAFLD nomenclature throughout this review[4].
Approximately 70% of diabetics, overweight patients, and 90% of patients with dyslipidemia and morbid obesity will
develop NAFLD[1,4]. NAFLD is also associated with systemic pathologies such as chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular
disease, and reduced mineral density[1]. Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in NAFLD patients;
however, they also have an increased overall mortality rate compared to the general population[1]. It is of utmost concern
that there is an increase in the prevalence of adolescents with NAFLD, leading to earlier end-stage liver disease[5].

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 Tidwell J et al. Emerging therapeutic options for NAFLD

In the United States alone, $100 billion of annual medical costs are attributed to NAFLD. Searching for an approved
medical therapy for NAFLD is a pressured race[4]. The lack of an authorized agent could be secondary to the limited
understanding of a multifactorial disease process and the absence of dependable non-invasive biomarkers[4]. Due to the
acknowledgment of an increasing epidemic and the severity of NAFLD, several trials are ongoing to identify possible
pharmacologic agents[3]. Most of the agents target the known metabolic associations with NAFLD, such as adipose tissue
dysfunction, insulin resistance, de novo lipogenesis, lipid exportation in the liver, and imbalance between energy intake
and expenditure[5].
There is growing interest in future combined medications targeting multiple critical pathways involved in developing
NAFLD[5]. Precise identification of the drivers of this disease is crucial for developing new agents, and it is hoped that
registered therapy for NAFLD will become available in the next few years[2]. Clinicians must be aware of the emerging
agents for the treatment of NAFLD and the need for further human research to characterize better the efficacy, dosage,
length of treatment, etc. This systematic review will delve into the scientific data behind four innovative therapeutic
classes currently being studied for treating NAFLD: Cyclophilin inhibitors, fibroblast growth factor 21 analogs (FGF21),
and dual and pan peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review analyzed animal and human research, case reports, and published articles in English from all countries with
patients aged 18 and above. Only articles with a five or higher National Institutes of Health (NIH) Quality Assessment
score were included. Articles that were narrative or systematic reviews, abstracts, not in English, focused on patients
under 18 years old, did not measure outcomes of interest, were inaccessible, or had a low NIH Quality Assessment score
were excluded.
A comprehensive literature search using broad search criteria was conducted in five databases: PubMed, EMBASE,
Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science (October 29, 2022). Our search terms were as follows: (rencofilstat OR
"cyclophilin inhibitor" OR "cyclophilin inhibition" OR lanifibranor OR "PPAR agonist" OR "peroxisome proliferator
activated receptor agonist" OR "pan-ppar agonist" OR "pan-peroxisome proliferator activated receptor agonist" OR
efruxifermin OR "FGF-21 inhibitor" OR "fibroblast growth factor-21 inhibitor" OR "fibroblast growth factor 21 inhibitor"
OR "FGF21 inhibitor" OR "FGF21 inhibition" OR "FGF-21 inhibition") AND (NASH or "fatty liver" or "hepatic steatosis" or
steatohepatitis OR NAFLD OR "non-alcoholic fatty liver disease" OR "Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease" OR "Fatty Liver,
Non-alcoholic" OR "Fatty Livers, Non-alcoholic" OR "Liver, Non-alcoholic Fatty" OR "Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver" OR
"Non-alcoholic Fatty Livers" OR "Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis" OR "Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitides" OR "Steatohepat-
itides, Non-alcoholic" OR "Steatohepatitis, Non-alcoholic" OR "liver, fatty" OR "steatosis of liver" OR "visceral steatosis"
OR "steatosis, visceral" OR "steatoses, visceral" OR "visceral steatosis" OR "liver steatosis" OR "liver steatoses" OR
"steatosis, liver" OR "steatoses liver").
For the study selection process, Covidence was used, a platform that facilitates the importation of citations and
screening of titles, abstracts, and full text. Each article was initially screened by title and abstract by two independent
researchers (J.T. and N.B.) to exclude studies irrelevant to our aim. Next, each article was screened by full text by the
same two independent researchers (J.T. and N.B.) to exclude studies that were finally irrelevant to our aim. Once both
researchers completed all screening stages, any conflicts were registered in Covidence, and the discrepancies were
reviewed and resolved.
The following data were collected separately by J.T. and N.B. from all eligible studies and recorded in Excel: First
author, digital object identifier, study design, number of participants, name of therapy, mechanism of action, side effects,
and statistical data about liver enzymes, cholesterol panels, weight reduction, NAFLD activity score (NAS), Fibroscan
controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and kPa, fibrosis stage, fibrotic markers, and quality assessment scores. J.T. and
N.B. resolved all discrepancies in the collected data. The quality of included studies was assessed by the NIH Quality
Assessment tool. We included articles with a score greater than or equal to five out of eight points.

RESULTS
Records were identified from 5 databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science. One
hundred twenty-two duplicate records were removed before the screening. Six hundred eighty-one records were
screened, out of which eighty-two were excluded by an automation tool. Five hundred fifty-nine reports were sought for
retrieval, out of which three hundred were not retrieved. Two hundred fifty-nine reports were assessed for eligibility, out
of which two hundred and thirty were excluded. The most common reason for exclusion was review articles (156)
followed by irrelevant articles (31), abstracts (18), duplicates (16), foreign language (5), and unable to be accessed (4).
Twenty-nine of the two hundred and fifty-nine records assessed for eligibility were included (Figure 1). Most studies,
including human and animal participants, were small (n < 100). Some studies enrolled patients with NAFLD and others
with NASH. Articles were included when the NIH Quality Assessment Score was greater than or equal to five points. The
majority of articles included were scored as six or seven points. Reasons for lower scores included unknown publication
bias and no rating by two independent reviewers. Most studies did not report harmful outcomes.
Four studies evaluated cyclophilin inhibitors (Table 1), four evaluated FGF analogs (Table 2), eleven evaluated pan-
PPAR agonists (Table 3), and ten evaluated dual-PPAR agonists (Table 4). Different investigational products were
assessed; the most common for cyclophilin inhibitors was NV556, for FGF agonists/analogs was Efruxifermin (EFX), for

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Table 1 Studies of cyclophilin inhibitors in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Human
Number of Key inclusion Investigational
Ref. or Study design Study end points Key findings
participants criteria product/dose
animal
Harrison Human Randomized, n = 49 Patients with Rencofilstat Placebo Evaluate the effect of ALT in the placebo vs 75 vs
et al[9], single-blind, presumed F2/F3 vs Rencofilstat (75 Rencofilstat on ALT, 225 mg group was 70.67 vs
2022 placebo-controlled, NASH or 225 mg daily) Pro-C3, liver 42.5 vs 30.56 IU/L. Pro-C3
phase 2a study; steatosis, and was reduced in stratified
Duration: 4 wk fibrosis measured by patients with Pro-C3 > 15 (P
FibroScan < 0.01). Fibrosis was 22 vs 14
vs 12 kPa. Steatosis was 351
vs 337 vs 329 dB/m

Kuo et al Animal Duration: 30 wk n = 10 High-fat diet- CRV431: Control vs Evaluate the effect of Fibrosis levels were
[6], 2019 induced NASH 50 mg/kg daily CRV431 on liver 37%–46% lower in the
mouse model (n fibrosis measured by treatment vs control group (
= 10) Sirius red staining in P < 0.05)
liver biopsy sections

Kuo et al Animal Duration: 6 wk n=9 CCL4-induced CRV431: Control vs Evaluate the effect of Liver fibrosis was lowered
[8], 2019 liver fibrosis 50 mg/kg daily CRV431 on liver by 43% in the treatment vs
mouse model (n fibrosis measured by control group (P < 0.01)
= 9) Sirius red staining in
liver biopsy sections

Kuo et al Animal Duration: 6 wk n=8 High-fat diet- NV556: Control vs Evaluate the effect of Fibrosis was reduced by
[8], 2019 induced NASH 50 mg/kg daily NV556 on liver 60% in the treatment vs
mouse model collagen and fibrosis control group (P = 0.0281)
measured by Sirius
red staining in liver
biopsy sections

Simón Animal Duration: 7 wk n = 20 Choline- NV556: Control vs Effect of NV556 on Reduction of liver fibrosis
Serrano et deficient high- 100 mg/kg daily liver fibrosis and by 25% (2% in control vs
al[7], 2019 fat diet-induced collagen production 1.5% in treatment group P <
model of NASH measured by Sirus 0.01)
in mice (n = 10 red staining
per group)

ALT: Alanine transaminase; AST: Aspartate aminotransferase; NASH: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; NAFLD: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; CCL4:
Carbon tetrachloride; IU: International units.

pan-PPAR agonists was Lanifibranor, and for dual-PPAR agonists was Saroglitazar.
In terms of cyclophilin inhibitors, four animal studies demonstrated significant improvement in fibrosis on liver biopsy
weeks after product use (P < 0.05). The randomized controlled trial (RCT) performed in humans (n = 49) noted similar
results, with a reduction in ALT and Pro-C3 levels (P < 0.01), as well as steatosis and fibrosis as measured on FibroScan (P
< 0.01).
The three animal studies using FGF analogs demonstrated significant improvement in both steatosis and fibrosis
measured on liver biopsy (P < 0.05). The RCT performed in humans (n = 80) measured the change in hepatic fat fraction
(HFF) on magnetic resonance imaging at 12 wk of treatment. It noted a greater than 50% reduction in HFF in all treatment
dosage groups (P < 0.0001).
Eight animal studies using pan-PPAR agonists evidenced a significant reduction in steatosis on biopsy as measured by
the decrease in triglyceride or lipid accumulation in hepatocytes (P < 0.05). There was also a reduction in fibrosis and
collagen deposition on liver biopsy (P < 0.05). The human studies included three RCTs that examined the metabolic
effects and/or steatosis markers (steatosis activity score) and concluded improved metabolic function, resolution of
steatosis, and fibrosis improvement (P < 0.05).
In terms of dual-PPAR agonists, six animal studies reported improvement in steatosis, reduction in fibrosis or
progression to fibrosis, and improvement in lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity (P < 0.05). Two human in-vitro
studies on hepatic cells were performed, which demonstrated a reduction in hepatic lipid accumulation, secretion of
inflammatory chemokines, and profibrotic gene expression. Four additional human studies, including prospective design
and RCTs, showed improved metabolic parameters such as insulin sensitivity, hemoglobin A1c, and lipid profiles (P <
0.05). Additionally, FibroScan results showed improved liver stiffness and steatosis (P < 0.05).

DISCUSSION
Cyclophilin inhibitors
Cyclophilins are thought to contribute to the development of liver fibrosis and cancer. Among these, Cyclophilin B is
known to play a role in collagen production, leading to fibrosis. To treat NASH, several investigational products have

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Table 2 Studies of fibroblast growth factor analogs/agonists in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Human Key
Number of Investigational
Ref. or Study design inclusion Study endpoints Key findings
participants product/dose
animal criteria
Harrison Human Randomized, n = 80 Patients with Efruxifermin: Absolute change from The mean relative change in
et al[10], double-blind, biopsy- Placebo vs EFX baseline in HFF HFF at week 12 was -63.2% -
2021 placebo- confirmed (28, 50, 70 mg) measured as MRI- 70.9%, and -72.3%, respectively,
controlled, phase NASH (F1-F3) proton density fat in the treatment groups of 28,
2a BALANCED fraction at 12 wk of EFX 50, and 70 mg (P < 0.0001)
study. Duration:
16 wk

Bao et al Animal Duration: 15 d n = 10 Choline- Effect of PSTag600 on Decrease in NAS in control vs

[12], 2018 deficient attenuation of the treatment group of 5 vs 1 and
high-fat diet- development of NASH area of oil red O of 26% vs 3%,
induced measured by NAS and respectively (P < 0.05)
model of oil red O staining
NASH in
mice (n = 5
per group)

Le et al Animal Duration: 4 wk n=8 MCD diet- Evaluate the attenuation The expression of α-SMA and
[11], 2018 induced of fibrosis with the GPR91 in the liver of mice fed
NASH mouse administration of with MCD diet was increased.
model LY2405319 by The treatment group had an
measuring levels of a- attenuated increase of collagen
SMA and GPR91 (cells type 1, α-SMA, and GPR91
and receptors involved protein levels (P < 0.05).
in hepatic fibrogenesis) LY2405319 intraperitoneal
on liver biopsy after 8 administration for 4 wk daily
wk ameliorated hepatic steatosis
and fibrosis that was induced by
MCD diet

Puengel Animal Duration: 6 wk n = 12 Choline- BMS-986171: Effect of BMS-986171 on NAS of the control vs. treatment
et al[13], deficient Control vs 0.6 liver steatosis and group was 5 vs 4 (P < 0.05),
2022 high-fat diet- mg/kg twice fibrosis measured NAS hepatic steatosis 2.5 vs 1.5 (P <
induced weekly on biopsy 0.01), inflammation 3.5 vs 2.5
model of and ballooning 1.2 vs 0.75 (P <
NASH in 0.001) respectively
mice (n = 6
per group)

NASH: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; n: Number; NAS: NAFLD activity score; EFX: Efruxifermin; HFF: Hepatic fat fraction; MRI: Magnetic resonance
imaging; α-SMA: Alpha-smooth muscle actin; MCD: Methionine and choline-deficient.

been developed to target Cyclophilins[6]. The main cyclophilin inhibitors reviewed here are CRV431[6], NV556[7,8], and
Rencofilstat[9].
Studies conducted on animals, mainly mice that were administered a cyclophilin inhibitor, have shown positive results
in improving liver fibrosis during biopsy[6-8]. In particular, Kuo et al's research indicated a reduction of over 37% in liver
fibrosis with CRV431 treatment compared to control on various mouse models[6,8]. Likewise, NV556 also demonstrated a
significant decrease in collagen production and liver fibrosis[7,8].
Due to these promising results, researchers conducted a phase 2a RCT with 49 patients who received Rencofilstat (75,
225 mg) or a placebo[9]. The results showed that patients with high baseline Pro-C3 levels (> 15) experienced a decrease
in collagen biomarkers, which are predictors for collagen deposition (P < 0.01)[9]. This aligns with previous animal
studies, suggesting that cyclophilin inhibitor treatment may reduce liver fibrosis. The patients generally tolerated
Rencofilstat well, with only mild side effects reported, such as constipation, diarrhea, back pain, dizziness, and headache
[9]. Animal and human studies have shown that various investigational products that inhibit cyclophilin effectively treat
patients with NASH. These agents are also well-tolerated and have anti-fibrotic properties that are beneficial.

FGF21 analogs or agonists

FGF21 is an active component of organ metabolism. Different variants have been studied for treating fatty liver disease,
diabetes, and obesity due to their effect on glucose and lipid metabolism[10]. The main FGF21 analogs and agonists
reviewed here are LY2405319[11], PsTag600[12], BMS-986171[13], and EFX[10]. Multiple animal studies involving FGF21
analogs and agonists have demonstrated improved glucose metabolism and reductions in markers of liver injury and
fibrosis[11,12]. Le et al[11] performed an animal study using LY2405319 (FGF21 analog), which attenuated increased
collagen type 1, alpha-smooth muscle actin, and GPR91 protein levels[11]. These results align with research on PsTag600
(long-acting FGF21) and BMS-986171 (FGF21 agonist)[12,13].
A phase 2a study included 80 patients treated with a placebo or EFX 28 mg, 50 mg, or 70 mg (FGF21 analog) for 12 wk
[10]. The results indicated a significant decrease in HFF, with 78% of patients showing a positive response to NAS with an
increase of at least 2 points and 48% of patients showing a resolution of NASH[10]. There was also a statistically

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Table 3 Studies of pan peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Human
Number of Key inclusion Investigational
Ref. or Study design Study endpoints Key findings
participants criteria product/dose
animal
Abitbol et Human Double-blind, Patients with biopsy- IVA337 Reduction in trigly-
al[21], 2016 randomized, confirmed NASH (Lanifibranor). cerides by 32% and
placebo- and type 2 diabetes Placebo vs IVA337 ALT by 10% (P < 0.05)
controlled, on stable doses of (400, 800, or 1200
parallel-group metformin mg daily)
study. Duration:
4 wk

Cooreman Human Post-hoc analysis n = 247 Patients with non- Lanifibranor Effect of Lanifibranor NASH resolution and
et al[14], of the phase 2b cirrhotic biopsy- Placebo vs on glycemic control and fibrosis improvement
2022 NATIVE study. confirmed NASH Lanifibranor (800 NASH markers. in the treatment group
Duration: 24 wk or 1200 mg daily) Efficacy in NASH was vs placebo was 26% vs
measured with SAF 7%, respectively, and a
score and fibrosis 41% reduction of
staging HbA1c from baseline (
P < 0.001)

Francque et Human Randomized, n = 247 Patients with noncir- Lanifibranor Decrease of at least 2 48% of patients in the
al[18], 2021 double-blind, rhotic, highly active Placebo vs points in the SAF score 800 mg group and 55%
placebo- NASH (SAF ≥ 1 or Lanifibranor (800 without worsening of in the 1200 mg group
controlled, phase higher for steatosis, or 1200 mg daily) fibrosis had a decrease of at
2b trial. hepatocellular least 2 points in the
Duration: 24 wk ballooning, and SAF score vs 33% in the
lobular inflammation placebo group (P =
on liver biopsy) 0.007)

An et al Animal Duration: 3 wk n=5 Genetically obese MHY2013: Control Reduction of hepatic Liver triglycerides
[22], 2017 mice vs 5 mg/kg daily steatosis measured via were 10 mg/100 mg of
liver triglycerides on protein in the control vs
biopsy 7 mg/100 mg of
protein in the treatment
group (P < 0.05)

An et al Animal Duration: 3 wk n=6 Aged model mice MHY2013: Control Evaluate the attenuation The ratio of liver
[25], 2018 vs MHY2013 (1 or of hepatic lipid accumu- weight/body weight
3-5 mg/kg daily) lation measured by liver was 0.035, 0.03, and
biopsy 0.025 in control, 1 and
3-5 mg/kg groups,
respectively (P < 0.01)

Barbosa- Animal Duration: 4 wk n = 20 High-fat diet mice (n Bezafibrate: Effect of Bezafibrate on Reduction in TG levels
da-Silva et = 10 per group) Control vs 100 hepatic lipid and liver steatosis of
al[16], 2015 mg/kg daily metabolism measured 30% and 50%,
by liver TG and respectively, in the
steatosis on biopsy treatment group (P <
0.0001)

Boubia et al Animal Duration: 3 wk n = 16 CCI4-induced liver Lanifibranor: Efficacy of Lanifibranor Reduction in hepatic
[19], 2018 fibrosis in mice (n = 8 Control vs 30 in reducing fibrosis in collagen deposition
per group) mg/kg daily NASH measured by from 0.6% of the area to
hepatic collagen on 0.3% in the control vs
biopsy treatment group (P <
0.01)

Lefere et al Animal Duration: 6 wk n = 16 Choline-deficient Effect on NAFLD Reduction of NAFLD

[15], 2020 high-fat diet-induced measured by the activity score from 6 to
NASH mouse model NAFLD activity score, 2 in the treatment vs
(n = 8). Isolated fibrosis by the Sirus red control group (P <
hepatic macrophages staining, and hepatic 0.0001), collagen by 5%
(n = 8) macrophages assessed to 3% (P < 0.01), and
by IHC liver macrophages
from 22% to 8% (P <
0.0001)

Møllerhøj Animal Duration: 12 wk n = 13 Gubra-Amylin Lanifibranor: Change in NAS and At least a 2-point
et al[20], NASH diet-induced Control vs 30 fibrosis stage measured improvement in the
2022 obese mouse with mg/kg daily on biopsy steatosis score, and
biopsy-confirmed only 20% of
NASH hepatocytes had lipid
droplets vs 80% in the
control group (P <
0.001). 50% of mice had
a 1-point improvement
in fibrosis (P < 0.05)

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 Tidwell J et al. Emerging therapeutic options for NAFLD

Nagasawa Animal Duration: 5 wk n=7 Choline-deficient Benzafibrate: Effect on hepatic lipid Liver TG was 25, 20,
et al[17], high-fat diet-induced Control vs content and histopatho- and 55 mg/g in the 50,
2006 NASH mouse model Benzafibrate (50, logical changes 100 mg/kg vs placebo
100 mg/kg daily) measured on biopsy by groups, respectively (P
the number of activated < 0.01). The activated
hepatic stellate cells hepatic stellate cells
were 11 number/15
fields vs 1 number/15
fields, respectively

Wettstein Animal Duration: 3 wk n = 20 Choline-deficient IVA337 Evaluate the effects of Prevention of steatosis
et al[24], high-fat diet-induced (Lanifibranor) IVA337 on hepatic in 98% of mice and
2017 model of NASH in Control vs 30 features associated with inflammation in 75% of
mice (n = 10 per mg/kg daily NASH measured by mice (P < 0.001)
group) hepatic lipid droplet
count and lobular
inflammation foci count

ALT: Alanine transaminase; NASH: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; n: Number; TG: Triglycerides; CCL4: Carbon tetrachloride; SAF: Steatosis activity
fibrosis; NAFLD: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; NAS: NAFLD activity score; IHC: Immunohistochemistry.

Figure 1 PRISMA flow diagram.

significant reduction in alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and total cholesterol levels[10].
Compared to Resmetirom, a selective thyroid hormone receptor-β agonist in phase 3 trials, FGF21 analogs/agonists
showed similar reductions in HFF and fibrosis[10]. The side effects reported for EFX were mild and included diarrhea,
nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, frequent bowel movements, and fatigue[10]. In conclusion, FGF21 analogs and
agonists have numerous benefits for NAFLD, including improved glucose and lipid metabolism, reduced markers of liver
injury, and liver fibrosis. They effectively reduce hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, making them a promising treatment for
NAFL and NASH.

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Tidwell J et al. Emerging therapeutic options for NAFLD

Table 4 Studies of dual-pan peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Human
Number of Key inclusion Investigational
Ref. or Study design Study endpoints Key findings
participants criteria product/dose
animal
Boeckmans Human N/A Hepatic cells Elafibranor Effect on hepatic Reduction in hepatic lipid
et al[34], generated from steatosis and inflam- load, as well as the
2019 human skin- matory chemokines expression and secretion of
derived inflammatory chemokines,
precursors with which are responsible for the
induced NASH recruitment of immune cells

Boeckmans Human In vitro study. N/A Hepatic cells Elafibranor Effect on hepatic Attenuated lipid accumu-
et al[33], Duration: N/A generated from steatosis, inflam- lation, inflammatory
2021 human skin- matory chemokines, chemokine secretion, and
derived and pro-fibrotic gene pro-fibrotic gene expression
precursors with expression
induced NASH

Cariou et al Human Multicenter, n = 22 Abdominally GFT505: Placebo Effect on peripheral Improved peripheral insulin
[27], 2013 randomized, obese insulin- vs 80 mg daily and hepatic insulin sensitivity with a 21%
single-blind, resistant males sensitivity with increase of the GIR (P =
placebo- improvement in GIR 0.048) and enhanced hepatic
controlled, insulin sensitivity with a 44%
crossover study. increase in insulin
Duration: 8 wk suppression of endogenous
glucose production (P =
0.006)

Chaudhuri Human Single-center, n = 76 Patients with Saroglitazar 4 mg Effect on liver There was significant
et al[32], prospective, NAFLD and daily stiffness and steatosis improvement of LSM from
2023 observational, elevated ALT measured by LSM baseline (11.03 ± 7.19 kPa) to
open-label, levels along with and CAP on 24-wk (9.29 ± 6.39 kPa) and
single-arm study. liver stiffness FibroScan at baseline, 52-wk (8.59 ± 6.35 kPa)
Duration: 52 wk value ≥ 6 kPa 24 and 54 wk values, respectively (P <
and/or liver 0.001). There was a
steatosis CAP > significant improvement in
290 dB/m median CAP at 24 wk 281
dB/m, (P < 0.001) and 52 wk
287 dB/m, (P < 0.001) as
compared with the baseline
328 dB/m

Hassan et al Animal Duration: 5 wk n = 12 Mice with Saroglitazar: Histopathological In the control vs treatment
[29], 2019 induced NASH by Control vs 4 effects of Saroglitazar group, steatosis score was 3
a high-fat mg/kg daily by using light vs 0.5, hepatic ballooning
emulsion diet (n = microscopy was 2 vs 0.5, lobar hepatitis
6 per group) was 3 vs 1, and portal
hepatitis was 3 vs 0.25,
respectively (P < 0.05)

Padole et al Human n = 91 Patients with BMI Saroglitazar 4 mg Change from baseline Patients with > 5% of weight
[31], 2022 > 23 kg/m2 daily of liver biomarker, loss had a median AST of 36
diagnosed with hepatic steatosis, and vs 40 at baseline (P = 0.038),
NAFLD (CAP > fibrosis in patients ALT 44 vs 53 (P < 0.01), kPa
248 dB/m) who lost > 5% of the 5.9 vs 6.8 (P = 0.336) and CAP
weight 265 vs 311 (P = 0.128)

Rajesh et al Human n = 85 Patients with Saroglitazar 4 mg Evaluate the effect of From baseline, there was a
[28], 2022 NAFLD (US, CT, daily Saroglitazar on liver reduction in ALT from 49
or MRI) and type function test, liver u/L to 48 (P < 0.05), fibrosis
2 diabetes fibrosis score by score 10 kPa to 6 (P < 0.0001),
mellitus, and FibroScan, lipid TG 359.89 to 103.04 (P =
dyslipidemia profiles, and HbA1c 0.0001), HbA1c 10.29% to
9.85% (P = 0.002)

Jain et al Animal Duration: 12 wk n = 18 CDHFD-induced Saroglitazar: Reversal of CDHFD- In control vs. treatment,
[30], 2018 model of NASH in Control vs 3 induced NASH after 8 respectively, steatosis score
mice (n = 9 per mg/kg daily wk was 2.6 vs 0, ballooning 1.4 vs
group) 0, inflammation 3 vs 1.1 (P <
0.1)

Jain et al Animal Duration: 12 wk n = 16 CCL4-induced Saroglitazar: Reversal of CCl4- Saroglitazar protected mice
[30], 2018 fibrosis model in Control vs 4 induced liver fibrosis from CCl4-induced liver
mice (n = 8 per mg/kg daily after 4 wk fibrosis measured via
group) Hematoxylin and Eosin
stains

Staels et al Animal Duration: 7 wk n = 16 Choline-deficient GFT505: Control Evaluate the The percentage of animals
[26], 2013 high-fat diet- vs 10 mg/kg prevention of the with macrosteatosis in

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 Tidwell J et al. Emerging therapeutic options for NAFLD

induced model of daily development of control vs treatment was

NASH in mice (n NASH in CDHFD 100% to 0%, inflammation
= 8 per group) mice was 100% to 0%, and the
percentage of fibrosis was
1.3% to 0.8% (P < 0.01)

Staels et al Animal Duration: 7 wk n = 12 CCl4-induced GFT505: Control Evaluate the The fibrotic surface of control
[26], 2013 liver fibrosis in vs 30 mg/kg prevention of the vs treatment was 8% vs 4% in
mice (n = 6 per daily development of CCL4 mice (P < 0.001)
group) NASH in CCL4 mice

Ye et al[23], Animal Duration: 2 wk n=6 High fat-fed rats Ragaglitazar: 3 Evaluate the benefits Enhanced insulin suppress-
2003 mg/kg-1 daily of Ragaglitazar on ibility of hepatic glucose
insulin sensitivity and output by 79% (P < 0.001),
lipid metabolism. decrease in liver TG from
baseline of 23 μmol/g to 7
μmol/g (P < 0.01)

N/A: Not applicable; NASH: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; n: Number; TG: Triglycerides; CCL4: Carbon tetrachloride; NFS: NAFLD fibrosis score; CAP:
Controlled attenuation parameter; HbA1c: Hemoglobin A1c; NAFLD: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; GIR: Glucose infusion rate; CDHFD: Choline-
deficient high-fat diet; BMI: Body mass index; ALT: Alanine transaminase; AST: Aspartate aminotransferase; US: Ultrasound; MRI: Magnetic resonance
imaging; CT: Computerized tomography.

Pan-PPAR agonists
There are three different isoforms of PPAR, α, γ, δ[14]. PPARα mainly regulates genes that participate in lipid transport,
beta-oxidation, gluconeogenesis, and ketogenesis[15]. PPARγ regulates adiponectin, glucose metabolism, adipocyte
differentiation, and lipogenesis[15]. PPARδ limits inflammation and regulates hepatic fatty acid oxidation[15]. Single
PPAR agonists have had unwanted adverse effects and less effective results, for which investigational products that act
on several isoforms have been attractive[15].
The main pan-PPAR agonists reviewed here are Benzafibrate[16,17], Lanifibranor[14,15,18-21], and MHY2013[22,23].
Multiple animal studies involving pan-PPAR agonists have demonstrated increased plasma adiponectin, improvement in
hepatic steatosis, and markers of liver injury[15,17,19,20,22-24]. In alignment with the mechanism of pan-PPAR agonists,
MHY2013[22,25] and Lanifibranor[19,20,24] also led to a decrease in hepatic steatosis, hepatic inflammation, serum trigly-
cerides, profibrotic and fibrotic genes. In addition to the previously mentioned effects of Lanifibranor, Møllerhøj et al[20]
revealed that Lanifibranor resulted in progressive weight loss, a 23% decrease at eight weeks and a 30% decrease at 12 wk
[20].
In line with results from animal studies, a study of 45 patients using Lanifibranor (400 mg, 800 mg, or 1200 mg) or
placebo for four weeks revealed an increase in adiponectin, a decrease in triglycerides, and ALT[25]. Shortly after, a more
significant phase 2b trial was performed on 247 patients with NASH that were randomly assigned to Lanifibranor (800 or
1200 mg) or a placebo daily for 24 wk[18]. Participants had at least a 2-point decrease in the Steatosis, Activity, and
Fibrosis score[18]. A comparison of pan-PPAR agonists vs single agents revealed that pan-PPAR agonists were more
potent in counteracting fibrosis by combining specific mechanisms of single PPAR agonists[15]. Lanifibranor was
generally well tolerated with mild reported side effects, including diarrhea, nausea, peripheral edema, anemia, and
weight gain[18]. Based on initial data, pan-PPAR agonists are more effective in improving the histological features of
fatty liver disease with fewer adverse side effects than single PPAR agonists. This makes them a desirable option for the
treatment of fatty liver disease.

Dual-PPAR agonists
Like pan-PPAR agonists, these agents act on two isoforms of PPAR, allowing for a more targeted effect. Saroglitazar has
already been Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-approved for diabetic dyslipidemia and hypertriglyceridemia and has
been shown to improve NAFLD, which piqued interest.
The main dual-PPAR agonists reviewed here are Ragaglitazar (α/γ)[23], GFT505 (α/δ)[26,27], Saroglitazar (α/γ)[28-32]
and Elafibranor (α/δ)[33,34]. Multiple animal studies involving dual-PPAR agonists have demonstrated promising
results, including reduced triglycerides and liver injury markers[23,29]. Ragaglitazar revealed an 88% reduction in trigly-
cerides, increased adiponectin, counteracted an increase in visceral fat mass, and enhanced insulin suppressibility of
hepatic glucose output[23]. These outcomes correlate with results seen with GFT505[26] and Saroglitazar[20,29].
Furthermore, Saroglitazar completely normalized AST and ALT, reduced serum TNF-α level by 47.6% and leptin by
58.6%[29].
Human research showed promising results in line with the aforementioned animal studies. GFT505 80 mg/day
revealed a statistically significant reduction of fasting plasma triglycerides, LDL, and liver enzyme levels[27]. However,
the most studied investigational product is Saroglitazar. A more extensive study in 85 patients revealed reduced ALT and
triglycerides[28]. Furthermore, a study of Saroglitazar in 91 patients showed that 57 patients (63%) could reduce ≥ 5% of
their weight[31]. There has been discussion regarding pan-PPAR agonists vs dual agents; Boeckmans et al[33] compared
Elafibranor vs Lanifibranor (pan-PPAR agonist), which identified Elafibranor as having higher anti-NASH properties[33].
In general, dual-PPAR agonists are safe and effective in treating NAFLD and obesity. Research suggests that Elafibranor
may be more effective than pan-PPAR agonists in treating these conditions.

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Tidwell J et al. Emerging therapeutic options for NAFLD

CONCLUSION
NAFLD has become one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease globally. It's troubling that no FDA-
approved treatments are currently available for this condition. Patients are limited to lifestyle changes and managing any
concurrent diseases associated with fatty liver. However, there are promising developments in the form of investigational
products that are being studied through clinical trials. These products include cyclophilin inhibitors, FGF21 agonists, and
pan and dual PPAR agonists. The data analyzed in this review show clinically significant improvement in individual
histological features of NAFLD in both animal and human trials for all four classes. These agents were generally well
tolerated, with minimal side effects. We believe this compilation of information will have positive clinical implications in
obtaining an FDA-approved therapy for NAFLD. However, more extensive trials are needed to further determine their
efficacy, proper dosage, duration of therapy, and potential side effects for patients with NAFLD, including those with
hepatic steatosis and fibrosis.

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
Research background
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a global health issue with significant medical costs. The lack of a
Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication for the treatment of NAFLD has prompted the investigation of
several potential therapeutic classes. It is valuable to have a compilation of the data available on their efficacy.

Research motivation
Due to the absence of an approved medication by the FDA for the treatment of NAFLD, several therapeutic classes have
been investigated in clinical trials. It is important to understand the mechanisms and statistical significance of the agents
being investigated, as NAFLD is extremely prevalent.

Research objectives
To assess the efficacy of cyclophilin inhibitors, fibroblast growth factor 21 analogs (FGF21), and dual and pan peroxisome
proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists as possible therapeutic classes for treating NAFLD.

Research methods
We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science using keywords including cyclophilin
inhibitor, FGF agonist, pan-PPAR agonists, dual-PPAR agonist, NAFLD, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and fatty liver.
Articles with a National Institutes of Health Quality Assessment score of five or higher were included. Each article was
screened by two independent researchers evaluating relevance and quality. Pertinent data were extracted in a sprea-
dsheet and descriptively analyzed.

Research results
We identified 29 studies that met the necessary criteria and were included in this review. These records included 12
human studies and 17 animal studies. Specifically, there were four studies on cyclophilin inhibitors, four on FGF analogs,
11 on pan-PPAR agonists, and ten on dual-PPAR agonists. All classes were found to be efficacious for the treatment of
NAFLD with statistical significance (P < 0.05).

Research conclusions
We found that cyclophilin inhibitors, fibroblast growth factor 21 analogs, and dual and pan PPAR agonists are not only
statistically efficacious for the treatment of NAFLD but also generally well tolerated. We recommend more extensive
human clinical research to further delineate therapy's efficacy, dosage, and duration.

Research perspectives
It is to be expected that additional human clinical trials of the therapeutic classes assessed in this review, as well as
additional novel agents, will be conducted in the near future. An FDA-approved agent for the treatment of NAFLD is of
utmost importance.

FOOTNOTES
Author contributions: Tidwell J and Balassiano N performed the screening of articles, extraction of data and wrote the manuscript;
Tidwell J and Shaikh A contributed to the results and discussion section; Nassar M contributed to editing, formatting and reviewing; All
authors have read and approve the final manuscript.

Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

PRISMA 2009 Checklist statement: The authors have read the PRISMA 2009 Checklist, and the manuscript was prepared and revised

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 Tidwell J et al. Emerging therapeutic options for NAFLD

according to the PRISMA 2009 Checklist.

Open-Access: This article is an open-access article that was selected by an in-house editor and fully peer-reviewed by external reviewers.
It is distributed in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial (CC BY-NC 4.0) license, which permits others to
distribute, remix, adapt, build upon this work non-commercially, and license their derivative works on different terms, provided the
original work is properly cited and the use is non-commercial. See: https://creativecommons.org/Licenses/by-nc/4.0/

Country/Territory of origin: United States

ORCID number: Jasmine Tidwell 0009-0004-0560-672X; Natalie Balassiano 0000-0003-2476-0218; Anjiya Shaikh 0000-0002-4252-7404; Mahmoud
Nassar 0000-0002-5401-9562.

S-Editor: Fan JR
L-Editor: A
P-Editor: Cai YX

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