Göttingen Minipigs Reveal Genetic Protection Against Fatty Liver Disease

Researchers including Simone Renner have identified a distinct genetic program that may help protect Göttingen minipigs from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Comparing liver gene activity across Göttingen minipigs, humans, mice, and MASLD-susceptible pig breeds revealed 692 uniquely regulated genes involved in key metabolic and signaling pathways. The study highlights the transcription factors HMBOX1 and PATZ1 as central regulators, alongside several secreted proteins that may contribute to disease resistance. These findings provide new insights into natural protection against fatty liver disease and point to potential targets for future prevention and treatment strategies.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42349720/