Artificial Intelligence and Chilean Bee Products: Innovative Strategies Against Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

On World Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Day, which affects 30% of Chileans, the Millennium Institute iHEALTH highlights two groundbreaking research projects: one uses artificial intelligence to improve diagnosis without biopsies, and the other explores the therapeutic potential of endemic honeys and pollens. Both aim to combat a condition linked to obesity and overweight that can progress to cirrhosis or cancer.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects 25% of the global population and impacts 30% of adults in Chile, making it one of the leading causes of cirrhosis and liver cancer. On World NAFLD Day (June 12), two pioneering research efforts are being highlighted for combining technology and local biodiversity to fight this silent disease: one based on artificial intelligence to improve diagnosis, and another leveraging the properties of Chilean bee products as a natural therapy.

An Epidemic Tied to Obesity

NAFLD—associated with obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles—advances without symptoms until it reaches more serious stages. According to the Chilean Association of Hepatology, 90% of people with obesity have the condition, and Chile ranks second in obesity rates among OECD countries. Despite its prevalence, a definitive diagnosis still requires invasive liver biopsies, and no pharmacological treatments have yet been approved.

To address this challenge, researchers at the Millennium Institute for Intelligent Healthcare Engineering (iHEALTH) are leading projects aimed at improving the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of what many now call a “hidden pandemic.”

Artificial Intelligence for Accurate Diagnosis

Dr. Aline Xavier, Assistant Professor at the University of Santiago and early-career researcher at iHEALTH, leads a FONDECYT Initiation project aiming to replace traditional liver tissue biopsy with a non-invasive method that uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and artificial intelligence.

“Our algorithm analyzes MRI spectra to detect and classify the stages of the disease during the imaging exam—no invasive procedures required. It’s a step toward a ‘virtual biopsy,’ which is key for large-scale screening,” explains Dr. Xavier.

This innovation—developed with researchers from the Pontificia Universidad Católica—could democratize access to accurate diagnoses, especially in regions with fewer specialists.

Chilean Honeys and Pollens: A Natural Therapy

In parallel, postdoctoral researcher Dr. Juan Esteban Oyarzún (School of Medicine UC / iHEALTH) is exploring a therapeutic alternative based on Chile’s unique biodiversity. His FONDECYT Postdoctoral project studies the potential of endemic honeys (quillay, ulmo, corcolén) and bee pollens—rich in antioxidants—to prevent or reduce liver damage.

“These natural products modulate oxidative stress and inflammation, two key factors in NAFLD progression. We aim to develop functional ingredients that, when included in the diet, help fight the disease,” says Dr. Oyarzún.

Preclinical studies have already shown that pollen extracts reduce fat accumulation and oxidative stress in liver cells.

Interdisciplinary Solutions for a Global Challenge

Both projects reflect iHEALTH’s approach—funded by the National Agency for Research and Development (ANID)—to tackle public health challenges using technological innovation and local resources.

“NAFLD is a silent pandemic that demands urgent action. These research efforts show how Chile can lead solutions from both artificial intelligence and its natural heritage,” highlights Dr. Xavier.

With 74% of Chileans overweight or obese, these initiatives aim not only to improve diagnosis and treatment, but also to prevent future complications in an already burdened healthcare system.