UBE2N enzyme identified as potential target for MASH liver disease

Researchers led by Cedars-Sinai have identified the UBE2N enzyme as a potential target for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a serious form of liver disease. The study, published in Nature Metabolism, found that UBE2N levels in liver cells decline as the disease progresses from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) toward MASH.

The enzyme appears to protect the liver by helping cells clear damaged mitochondria and supporting fat breakdown. In preclinical trials involving mice, restoring UBE2N to normal levels resulted in reduced fat accumulation, inflammation, and scarring. These findings suggest that UBE2N could serve as a key mechanism for future prevention and treatment strategies for liver conditions that currently lack a cure.