Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide, garnering significant attention due to its close association with metabolic disorders. The pathogenesis of MAFLD involves lipid metabolism dysfunction, lipid oxidation, and gene dysregulation. This article focuses on analyzing metabolic pathways in the liver, including hepatic fatty acid uptake, de novo triglyceride synthesis, and lipid oxidation, as well as the functions of associated lipid metabolism genes, such as FATP2, FATP5, CD36, PPARα, CPT1, CPT2, FGF21, SREBP1, ChREBP, ACLY, ACC, FASN, SCD, DGAT2, GPR75, RBP4, adiponectin, and osteocalcin. Through in-depth analysis of these genes and signaling pathways, this article provides new insights and a theoretical basis for the diagnosis and treatment of MAFLD, highlighting the pivotal role of lipid metabolism regulation in the progression of MAFLD, and identifying relevant genes and molecules as potential therapeutic targets.