Hepatoprotective Activity of the Fruits of Eleutherococcus senticosus in Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Mice and Their Chemical Composition

TL;DR

This study shows that Siberian ginseng fruit extract protects mouse livers from paracetamol damage, with a specific dose being most effective.

Contribution

The study is the first to demonstrate the hepatoprotective potential of Eleutherococcus senticosus fruit extract in a mouse model of liver injury.

Findings

The 750 mg/kg dose of E. senticosus extract effectively maintained liver enzyme levels close to control values.

Phytochemical analysis identified high levels of phenolic acids, flavonoids, amino acids, and essential minerals in the extract.

No histopathological changes were observed in the kidneys or brains of treated animals, indicating safety.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) is an adaptogenic plant widely recognized for its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties; however its hepatoprotective potential properties are unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate whether the fruit extract of E. senticosus contains chemical constituents with hepatoprotective effects in a paracetamol-induced liver injury model in mice. Methods: Female BALB/c mice were randomized into five groups: control, paracetamol (300 mg/kg, IP), E. senticosus extract (750 or 1500 mg/kg, PO) + paracetamol, and silymarin (50 mg/kg) + paracetamol. Extracts were administered for seven days before paracetamol challenge. Biochemical markers (ALT, AST, urea, creatinine, protein, albumin) and hematological parameters were assessed, and organs were subjected to histopathological examination. Phytochemical characterization of the extract was performed using UHPLC-DAD-MS and ICP-OES. Results: The 750 mg/kg dose of E. senticosus extract maintained ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine levels close to control values, while the higher dose (1500 mg/kg) was less effective and showed an increase in serum urea. Both extract doses and silymarin attenuated creatinine elevation induced by paracetamol. No histopathological changes were detected in the kidneys or brains of treated animals. Phytochemical analysis revealed high contents of phenolic acids (chlorogenic and dicaffeoylquinic acids), flavonoids, amino acids, and essential minerals. Conclusions: E. senticosus fruit extract demonstrated a hepatoprotective effect at an optimal dose (750 mg/kg), indicating a potential dose-dependent effect. The absence of histopathological alterations in key organs supports the fruit extract’s safety.

Figures