Vitamin That May Prevent Silent Liver Damage Discovered by Scientists

Researchers have identified a genetic driver of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) and found that vitamin B3, also known as niacin, may be able to suppress it to restore liver health. The findings, published on March 24, 2026, suggest that this widely available and FDA-approved vitamin could serve as a targeted therapy for a condition that affects approximately 30% of people worldwide.

The research was conducted by an international team led by Professor Jang Hyun Choi at UNIST, in collaboration with Professor Hwayoung Yun at Pusan National University (PNU) and Professor Neung Hwa Park at Ulsan University Hospital (UUH). The team identified a small RNA molecule called microRNA-93 (miR-93) as a central regulator in the development and progression of MASLD.

The Role of miR-93 in Liver Damage

MiR-93 is found in liver cells and functions by controlling the activity of specific genes. The research team discovered that levels of this molecule are unusually high in animal models and human patients suffering from fatty liver disease.

According to the study, excess miR-93 disrupts liver function by suppressing SIRT1, a gene responsible for managing fat metabolism within liver cells. When SIRT1 is suppressed, the liver experiences increased fat accumulation, inflammation, and scarring.

To verify the role of this molecule, researchers used gene editing to stop the production of miR-93 in mice. The results showed that these animals had significantly less fat accumulation in the liver, improved overall liver function, and better insulin sensitivity.

Vitamin B3 as a Potential Treatment

The study found that vitamin B3 can effectively shut down the activity of miR-93. Because niacin is already an approved drug and is easily accessible, researchers believe it represents a safe and affordable option for treating MASLD.

MASLD has long lacked effective, targeted therapies, making the discovery of a genetic trigger that can be suppressed by a common vitamin a significant development in liver health research.

Broader Context of Fatty Liver Research

While the focus of this specific breakthrough is on vitamin B3 and the miR-93 pathway, other research has explored various supplements for managing MASLD. For example, some research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce liver fat and potentially slow or reverse scarring associated with the disease, although other studies have not found the same results.

The identification of miR-93 marks the first time this specific molecule has been clearly linked to the progression of fatty liver disease, providing a new pathway for future targeted medical interventions.