Comprehensive Analysis Reveals the Molecular Features and Immune Infiltration of PANoptosis-Related Genes in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

BACKGROUND: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by alcohol-independent hepatic lipid accumulation, remains poorly understood in terms of PANoptosis involvement. METHODS: We integrated high-throughput sequencing data with bioinformatics to profile differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and immune infiltration patterns in MASLD, identifying PANoptosis-associated DEGs (PANoDEGs). Machine learning algorithms prioritized key PANoDEGs, while ROC curves assessed their diagnostic efficacy. Cellular, animal, and clinical validations confirmed target expression. RESULTS: Three PANoDEGs (SNHG16, Caspase-6, and Dynamin-1-like protein) exhibited strong MASLD associations and diagnostic significance. Immune profiling revealed elevated M1 macrophages, naïve B cells, and activated natural killer cells in MASLD tissues versus controls. Further experiments verified the expression of the key PANoDEGs. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides new insights for further studies on the pathogenesis and treatment strategies of PANoptosis in MASLD.