Non – alcoholic fatty liver disease: pathogenesis and its connection with cardiovascular risk

Abstract

Abstract : Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is marked by hepatic fat accumulation not due to alcohol abuse. Several studies have demonstrated that NAFLD is associated with insulin resistance leading to a resistance in the antilipolytic effect of insulin in the adipose tissue with an increase of free fatty acids. In this review we analyzed the current understanding of NAFLD pathogenesis, discussed the mechanisms that relate NAFLD with metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis and its association with the development and progression of cardiovascular disease.