Pectin in Metabolic Liver Disease

Alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis) are observed in nutritional liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and have been shown to be associated with the severity of both. Editing the composition of the microbiota by fecal microbiota transfer or by application of probiotics or prebiotics/fiber in rodent models and human proof-of-concept trials of NAFLD and ALD have demonstrated its possible contribution to reducing the progression of liver damage. In this review, we address the role of a soluble fiber, pectin, in reducing the development of liver injury in NAFLD and ALD through its impact on gut bacteria.

Automated summary

Alterations in the gut microbiota composition play a role in the development and severity of NAFLD and ALD. Interventions such as fecal microbiota transfer and probiotics have shown potential in reducing liver damage progression. This review focuses on the impact of pectin, a soluble fiber, on gut bacteria in reducing liver injury in NAFLD and ALD.