Peroxisome Dysfunction and Steatotic Liver Disease

Peroxisomes are cellular organelles involved in multiple metabolic processes, including lipid oxidation, lipid synthesis, and the metabolism of reactive oxygen species. Peroxisomal disorders arise from defects in peroxisomal biogenesis or peroxisomal enzymes. Patients with severe peroxisomal disorders often present with a range of distinctive physical features and congenital malformations, such as neuronal migration defects, renal cysts, and bony stippling in the patellae and long bones. Liver disease has also been reported in some patients with peroxisomal biogenesis disorders, although the exact molecular mechanisms underlying its development remain unclear. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is now recognised as one of the most prevalent causes of chronic liver disease globally, due to its widespread incidence and potential for serious complications. This review aims to highlight the possible involvement of peroxisomal defects in the pathogenesis of MASLD.