Gut microbiota as a metabolic mediator to prevent or attenuate MASLD

As a metabolic disorder, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) may be prevented through strategic adjustments of the gut microbiome, which could be reshaped by dietary intakes, and in turn, improve the host's health via various metabolic activities. The human gut harbors a diverse array of microorganisms that play a crucial role in host health. Through the gut-liver axis, bile acid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and short-chain fatty acid metabolism of gut microbiota significantly influence hepatic metabolic processes. Substantial evidence demonstrates that targeted modulation of gut microbiota represents an effective therapeutic approach for numerous diseases, including hepatic disease. While numerous studies have confirmed the regulatory effects of diet on host health, the potential for precision nutritional interventions utilizing gut microbiota and their metabolites remains an area requiring further exploration due to the high heterogeneity in gut microbiota of different individuals. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the intricate relationship between gut microbiota and MASLD. It particularly highlights the influences of gut microbial composition and metabolism on MASLD and clarifies the significant impact of dietary components on the progression and prevention of the disease via modulating and shaping the intestinal microenvironment.