MASLD is currently the most prevalent cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, with an estimated global prevalence of 25%. It’s projected that in the coming years, MASLD will surpass alcohol as the leading reason for liver transplantation in the general population. MASLD is directly linked to various extrahepatic comorbidities, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and chronic kidney disease, leading many researchers to view it as the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome.

The pathogenesis of MASLD has been the subject of extensive study over the past decade. However, the mechanisms driving its progression to MASLD remain only partially understood. Emerging evidence suggests that the physiopathology of MASLD is significantly influenced by various dietary and environmental factors. These factors may play a role in the development and progression of the disease by instigating alterations in gut microbiota and/or inducing epigenetic modifications, among other potential mechanisms.

In our lab, we aim to unravel the intricate relationship between the gut and the liver in MASLD pathogenesis. We also investigate the potential impact of epigenetics and epitranscriptomic mechanisms on MASLD development and progression. Concurrently, we explore the therapeutic prospects of microbiota-targeted dietary interventions for patients with MASLD and other obesity-related metabolic disorders.

We welcome applications from predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers who are interested in joining the ODiM Lab. If you’re interested, please submit a comprehensive CV and a letter detailing your research experience and your research proposal to Dr. Bruno Ramos-Molina at bruno.ramos@imib.es.