What question did this study set out to answer?

To examine the functions of various T cell subsets in the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis.

February 14, 2026Hepatology Communications1 citationsOpen Access

Dual roles of T cells in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis pathogenesis and liver fibrosis: From inflammation to therapeutic targets

YCYijie ChenNanjing University of Chinese Medicine BJBei JiaNanjing Drum Tower Hospital XTXin TongNanjing Drum Tower Hospital

Key Points

To examine the functions of various T cell subsets in the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis.
Reviewed literature on T cell roles in inflammation and fibrosis associated with MASH
Analyzed mechanisms of T cell-mediated immune responses in liver disease
Discussed potential therapeutic strategies targeting T cells for MASH treatment
T cells contribute significantly to inflammation and fibrosis in MASH
Certain T cell subsets demonstrate increased cytotoxicity and cytokine production
Targeting T cells may offer new therapeutic options for MASH management

Abstract

Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a progressive form of metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is becoming a serious global health threat. Both the innate and adaptive immune responses contribute to MASH-associated inflammation and fibrosis. Increasing evidence has shown that T-cell–mediated adaptive immunity triggers inflammation and fibrosis in MASH cells through cytotoxicity, cytokines, and other pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic mediators. This review focuses on the roles of different T cell subsets in MASH-associated liver inflammation and fibrosis. Factors related to inflammation and potential therapeutic approaches targeting T cells in MASH are also discussed.

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