In the group of patients with NAFLD, multiple stepwise backward regression analysis with PCSK9 as dependent variable and age, apo C3, PTX3, apo B48, apo B100, and apo A1 as independent variables revealed that apo A1, apo C3, apo B100, and PTX3 were significantly associated with PCSK9 (Table 6). The gene discussed is AOPEP; the disease is metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.