Structured PREreview of CD4⁺ T cells promote fibrosis during metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis

Does the introduction explain the objective of the research presented in the preprint?

Yes

The introduction clearly states the focus of the study. It outlines the focal point on hepatic CD4⁺ T cells in MASH and the investigation of the OX40L–OX40 pathway as a potential therapeutic target.

Are the methods well-suited for this research?

Highly appropriate

The research employs a robust multi-modal design (CyTOF, CITE-seq, genetic deletion of CD4, antibody blockage and human precision-cut liver slices) that adheres to best practices and offers a sound basis to make valid conclusions.

Are the conclusions supported by the data?

Highly supported

The conclusions go well with the experimental data and give a realistic analysis of the results.

Are the data presentations, including visualizations, well-suited to represent the data?

Highly appropriate and clear

The data is easy to interpret because the figures, graphs, and visualizations are well designed, clearly labeled, and communicate key findings.

How clearly do the authors discuss, explain, and interpret their findings and potential next steps for the research?

Very clearly

The discussion is insightful and well organized in that it gives clear explanations to the findings, their biological importance and how they contribute to the understanding of MASH immunopathogenesis. The logical steps that the authors provide such as the mechanistic research and clinical translation of OX40L-OX40 targeting are also comprehensive, showing a profound and informative understanding of their findings.

Is the preprint likely to advance academic knowledge?

Highly likely

The paper offers substantial novel data on the importance of hepatic CD4+ T cells and the OX40L-OX40 axis in MASH, which offers mechanistic knowledge and a potential therapeutic receptor that makes great contributions to knowledge in liver immunopathology.

Would it benefit from language editing?

No

Would you recommend this preprint to others?

Yes, it’s of high quality

The preprint is scientifically sound and properly executed and it contains new and impactful insights which are useful to immunology, hepatology and translational medicine researchers.

Is it ready for attention from an editor, publisher or broader audience?

Yes, as it is

The article is quite robust and close to publication but would require a few modifications, which include better reporting of sample sizes, more mechanistic findings and public deposition of raw data prior to submission to a journal.

Competing interests

The author declares that they have no competing interests.