Lipids at the helm: a metabolic playbook for liver regeneration

Ancient mythology alluded to the liver’s regenerative capabilities, a phenomenon now validated by scientific research: the organ can regenerate up to 75% of its mass following partial resection, provided sufficient tissue remains. This commentary synthesizes and contextualizes a recent review authored by Duan and colleagues who emphasize lipid metabolism as a key component of liver regeneration. Effective regeneration depends on the viability of hepatocytes, contributions from supporting cells, metabolic adaptability, and appropriate management of infections and hemodynamics. The regenerative process unfolds in distinct phases: cytokine priming, cellular proliferation, and termination. In cases of acute injury, hepatocytes are primarily responsible for regeneration, whereas in chronic disease states, progenitor-like cells also contribute. Recovery is influenced by hormonal status, nutritional state, age, and signals from non-parenchymal cells, with hepatocyte Zone 2 playing a pivotal role. Lipid metabolism is critical; moderate lipid accumulation supports regeneration, whereas excessive fat deposition hinders it. Lipophagy provides essential energy and mitigates toxicity, while endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress must be properly regulated. Therapeutic strategies focus on optimizing β-oxidation, enhancing lipophagy, and managing ER stress, guided by lipid profiling and fat quantification. Personalized interventions tailored to phase-specific lipid metabolic needs may optimize liver regenerative outcomes.