New research presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), The Liver Meeting, reveals a connection between low levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and the risk of metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in women. MASLD, formerly known as fatty liver disease, is a leading cause of liver-related health issues worldwide.
Dr Katherine Cooper (University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Boston, MA, USA) led the study, which analyzed data from the CARDIA cohort. AMH, a hormone produced by the ovaries, is a key marker of ovarian function and declines naturally with age, becoming undetectable after menopause.
“We found that women with low AMH levels during their reproductive years – particularly those experiencing premature menopause before age 40 – were about twice as likely to develop MASLD later in life,” Dr Cooper explained. This highlights low AMH as a risk factor for fatty liver disease, separate from advanced liver damage seen in women already diagnosed with the condition.
The study further suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could play a protective role. “Estrogen appears to shield against fatty liver, and HRT may help mitigate the risk in women with low AMH levels,” Dr Cooper added.
Dr Cooper emphasized that ovarian aging has broader implications for women’s overall health, including liver health. “Low AMH has already been linked to high cholesterol and diabetes. Now, we’re seeing its role in fatty liver disease risk. This underscores the need for proactive healthcare interventions.” She recommends that women experiencing premature menopause, especially those with metabolic risk factors like obesity or insulin resistance, undergo regular screenings for liver health. “Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a nutrient-dense diet, and limiting alcohol consumption are key strategies to reduce MASLD risk,” she said. Additionally, HRT may offer dual benefits, supporting both reproductive and liver health when used appropriately.
While the findings are promising, Dr Cooper warned against oversimplifying the research. “AMH is just one piece of the puzzle. Lifestyle factors and other metabolic conditions play significant roles in liver disease development,” she said.
This study adds a vital layer to our understanding of how ovarian aging and hormonal changes intersect with liver health, paving the way for more personalized and preventive care strategies for women at risk of MASLD.
Presentation title: Low Anti-Mullerian Hormone in Reproductive-Aged Women Is Associated With MASLD in Midlife: Data From the Longitudinal CARDIA Cohort (Abstract 2340)
Disclosure: This short article was provided by American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD). No funding or publication fees were involved in the publication of this article.
Acknowledgement: Editorial Assistance was provided by Joey Heywood at Touch Medical Media.
