The role of gut microbiota in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease pathogenesis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise globally, both in adults and children. The "multiple-hits" hypothesis presents that various factors simultaneously impact the formation of NAFLD, one of which is gut microbiota (GM). Following damage to the intestinal barrier by dysbiosis, which increases permeability, the liver is constantly exposed to bacteria and related products. There is growing evidence that microbial metabolites may contribute to the pathogenicity of NAFLD. The pathogenic mechanisms of GM in NAFLD are not precisely known but gut dysbiosis appears to be associated with the development of NAFLD. In this article, we intend to review the probable mechanisms of GM pathogenesis in NAFLD. •Gut microbiota (GM) dysbiosis and microbial metabolites play a crucial role in the development and pathogenicity of NAFLD.•Damage to the intestinal barrier by dysbiosis due to increased permeability, so the liver is exposed to GM products.•An improper diet (High in fat and sugar and low in fiber) provides an appropriate underlying for Gut microbiota dysbiosis.