Research Progress on the Role and Mechanism of Flavonoids in Improving Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease

Flavonoids are widely present in various plants and possess multiple biological activities, such as anti-inflammation, antioxidation and anticancer. In the realm of disease prevention and therapeutic interventions, a noteworthy function is assumed by these entities, evident from their significant research potentiality and intrinsic value. Characterized by an excessive lipid accumulation within the hepatic cells, metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) manifests as a prevalent chronic ailment of the liver. The "multiple hits" theory suggests that its occurrence is the result of systemic homeostasis imbalance, influenced by factors such as abnormal lipid metabolism, inflammatory reaction, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and gut microbiota. However, there are no effective clinical drugs for it. Recent studies have found that flavonoid active components can alleviate MAFLD through multiple pathways, including regulating abnormal lipid metabolism, inhibiting inflammatory response, alleviating oxidative stress, improving insulin resistance, regulating gut microbiota, and regulating liver autophagy. Therefore, this paper summarizes the pharmacological action and related mechanisms of flavonoid active components in improving MAFLD. This manuscript may provide a reference for seeking a novel therapeutic agent for MAFLD management.