My research interests lie in the study of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), the most widespread liver disease worldwide. Given that mortality from ACLD is dramatically higher in people living with HIV (PLHIV) than the general population, I sought to better understand the mechanisms by which MASLD contributes to non AIDs-related mortality. I began my research career by investigating the hepatic complications in HIV. In doing so, I worked to curate and analyze data for the LIVEr Disease in HIV (LIVEHIV) Cohort, the largest Canadian prospective cohort of PLHIV. This led to multiple research projects ranging from investigating sex differences in the incidence and severity of MASLD, to the use of non-invasive biomarkers to predict liver fibrosis in this high-risk group and the impact of various anti-retrovirals on the progression of hepatic steatosis. Given the rising burden of ACLD in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), I focused my research to study the cardiometabolic complications of MASLD in IBD. Here, my work highlighted how MASLD predisposes IBD patients to increased cardiovascular risk, extra-hepatic comorbidities, and all-cause hospitalization.
What excites me the most about hepatology is that it is an ever- evolving field, as evidenced by the new MASLD nomenclature implemented in 2023. I am also intrigued by the complexity of factors that influence the development and the evaluation of both MASLD and ACLD, and the intersection between science and health equity. Beyond liver disease, MASLD is also emerging as a multisystem disease affecting extra-hepatic organs and a risk factor for all-cause mortality. It also contributes to poor patient-reported outcomes through its impact on health-related quality of life and disproportionately affects patients from at-risk backgrounds, including those with PLHIV and IBD.
I am thrilled to receive this award from AASLD. As a participant in the Emerging Liver Scholars Program, I am excited to advance my knowledge base and clinical skills while connecting with leading experts and fellow trainees in hepatology. I look forward to gaining valuable insights through single-topic symposiums and special interest groups that focus on emerging topics in MASLD and transplant hepatology. I am confident that the knowledge I will gain through this program will support my pursuit of an academic career, where I hope to improve the lives of those at risk of liver disease.
Dana Kablawi, MD – McGill University
AASLD 2024 Raymond T. Chung Emerging Liver Scholar Award
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