The introduction of direct-acting antivirals against hepatitis C virus (HCV) signaled the end of a major era in liver disease, while simultaneously opening new opportunities for medical research and clinical practice. Among these, Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) appeared as a modern-day “El Dorado” for hepatology, with a worldwide prevalence of > 25 %, a natural course tied to non-communicable diseases and lifestyle factors, and an increasing impact on liver transplantation statistics.
