Acetyl CoA carboxylase: Role in NAFLD, NASH, and HCC

Although cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, it owns the first place regarding the burden on health management systems involving men and women. Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) is a key rate-limiting enzyme in the de novo fatty acid (FA) synthesis pathway, and alterations in its expression are seen in cancer cells. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the fastest developing cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Higher levels of de novo lipogenesis inside hepatic cells are essential in the progression of HCC. Here, we aimed to review the roles and function of ACC in developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and, more importantly, HCC. We also reviewed the structure and biological activity of this enzyme in de novo lipogenesis and small-molecule ACC inhibitors designed to target the conditions mentioned above. In conclusion, ACC is a promising target in the treatment of liver fat-related conditions and HCC.