The EASL SLD Summit 2026 offered a rich, multi-day exploration of the latest advances in Steatotic Liver Disease (SLD), including MASLD, MetALD, and ALD. The programme blended clinical education, public health perspectives, and cutting-edge scientific developments, creating a dynamic forum for interaction between early-career researchers and established experts in the field.

The Summit opened with a session examining the scale and evolving epidemiology of SLD. Speakers explored how environmental and policy-level factors—such as urban planning, health regulations, and especially the rise of ultra-processed foods—shape the “pro-SLD” environment. This set the stage for a broader discussion on prevention and the societal drivers of liver disease.

A strong focus was placed on patient care pathways across the full SLD spectrum. Key questions were tackled: Who should assess liver fibrosis and cardiovascular risk? Who should deliver addiction therapy? What is the best strategy for ensuring continuity and personalization of care—especially when transitioning patients from adolescence to adulthood?

Throughout the programme, participants gained insight into the integration of the latest diagnostic tools and technologies into clinical and research settings. Sessions highlighted the use of big data and artificial intelligence—including deep learning and transformers—in imaging and pathology, while exploring the promise and limitations of emerging tools like spatial and single-cell omics.

Advances in experimental models such as organoid bioengineering were presented, alongside new findings in genetics, metagenomics, and metabolomics. These tools are shedding light on inter-organ cross-talk and the multiorgan nature of SLD, with a particular focus on the liver–gut–brain–adipose tissue axis.

Therapeutic innovation remained central to the programme. The Summit addressed the evolving landscape of treatment options for MASH, MetALD, and cirrhosis, including liver- and metabolically-directed therapies. Discussion also focused on clinical trial endpoints—whether fibrosis or clinical outcomes should guide therapeutic goals—and reflected on updates from the recent EASL/AASLD endpoints conference.

On the final day, the Summit concluded with a forward-looking session on what lies ahead for the field: the potential of genetics in treatment, the feasibility of pan-SLD drug development, and the skills future specialists will need to navigate this rapidly evolving domain.