MOLECULAR TARGETS OF NATURAL POLYPHENOLS IN OXIDATIVE STRESS-MEDIATED NAFLD

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major global cause of chronic liver disease, ranging from simple hepatic steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which may progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). NASH is now one of the fastest-growing indications for liver transplantation. Despite its increasing prevalence, no approved pharmacological therapy exists, and lifestyle modification remains the primary treatment strategy. Oxidative stress plays a central role in NAFLD pathogenesis by disrupting the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses, leading to cellular damage and disease progression. Natural polyphenols, plant-derived bioactive compounds with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, have emerged as potential therapeutic agents. These compounds may improve hepatic steatosis by modulating lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways. This review focuses on oxidative stress-mediated mechanisms in NAFLD progression and highlights the molecular targets of natural polyphenols that may offer promising therapeutic strategies for its management.