Nature, Published online: 01 January 2025; doi:10.1038/d41586-024-04137-z

Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is defined by lipid accumulation and inflammation, and makes liver cells enter a tumour-suppressive state called senescence while increasing cancer risk. Investigation of this paradox reveals that MASH-inducing diets trigger senescence by causing DNA damage. However, prolonged metabolic stress allows once-senescent liver cells to start dividing and progress to cancer.