SUPR
EDC-NAFLD
Dnr:

sens2024043

Type:

NAISS SENS

Principal Investigator:

Shashank Gupta

Affiliation:

Örebro universitet

Start Date:

2024-10-16

End Date:

2025-11-01

Primary Classification:

30599: Other Medical and Health Sciences not elsewhere specified

Webpage:

Allocation

Abstract

**Abstract** The EDC-NAFLD project aims to investigate the role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the initiation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver unrelated to alcohol consumption. NAFLD has emerged as a significant public health concern, with a prevalence of approximately 25% in the general population, and is closely associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. The project seeks to address the growing evidence suggesting that EDC exposure may exacerbate the effects of genetic predisposition, high-fat diets, and lifestyle factors, potentially acting as a "second hit" in the progression of NAFLD from simple steatosis to more severe forms such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. To achieve its objectives, the EDC-NAFLD project will leverage a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating clinical, epidemiological, and omics data from a diverse cohort of individuals with NAFLD. The project will utilize the European NAFLD Registry, which includes over 9,000 patients with histologically characterized NAFLD, to conduct comprehensive analyses of the associations between EDC exposure and liver damage. By incorporating additional risk factors such as socioeconomic status, dietary patterns, and comorbidities, the project aims to provide a holistic understanding of the factors contributing to NAFLD progression. The project will employ advanced methodologies, including multi-omics analyses (metabolomics, transcriptomics, metagenomics, and proteomics) and non-invasive imaging techniques, to assess liver damage and its progression. Histopathological evaluations will be conducted to characterize liver inflammation and fibrosis, while biomarkers will be identified to monitor disease progression and response to interventions. The project will also explore the potential transgenerational effects of EDC exposure using in vitro models and animal studies, providing insights into the long-term implications of environmental exposures on liver health. Ultimately, the EDC-NAFLD project aspires to inform public health policies and clinical practices by identifying critical risk factors and potential interventions for preventing and managing NAFLD. The findings from this project could lead to the development of targeted strategies to mitigate the impact of EDCs on liver health, contributing to improved health outcomes for individuals at risk of NAFLD and its associated complications. Through its comprehensive approach, the EDC-NAFLD project seeks to bridge the gap between scientific research and public health, addressing the urgent need for effective strategies to combat the rising burden of liver disease in contemporary society.