Elafibranor: A promising treatment for alcoholic liver disease, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, and cholestatic liver disease

Abstract

Liver diseases pose a significant threat to human health. Although effective therapeutic agents exist for some liver diseases, there remains a critical need for advancements in research to address the gaps in treatment options and improve patient outcomes. This article reviews the assessment of Elafibranor's effects on liver fibrosis and intestinal barrier function in a mouse model of alcoholic liver disease (ALD), as reported by Koizumi et al in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. We summarize the impact and mechanisms of Elafibranor on ALD, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, and cholestatic liver disease based on current research. We also explore its potential as a dual agonist of PPARα/δ, which is undergoing Phase III clinical trials for metabolic-associated steatohepatitis. Our goal is to stimulate further investigation into Elafibranor's use for preventing and treating these liver diseases and to provide insights for its clinical application.

Keywords: Elafibranor; Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor; Liver fibrosis; Alcoholic liver disease; Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease; Metabolic-associated steatohepatitis; Cholestatic liver disease; Primary biliary cholangitis; Liver diseases

Core Tip: This article provides a critical evaluation of the study by Koizumi et al on the effects of Elafibranor on liver fibrosis and gut barrier function in a mouse model of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). It reviews recent advancements in the use of Elafibranor for treating ALD, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, and cholestatic liver disease, and explores its therapeutic potential. Additionally, it outlines future prospects for Elafibranor’s application. The aim is to promote broader use of Elafibranor in managing these liver conditions and to highlight its potential role in advancing clinical treatments.