[Effects of corydyceps polysaccharide on liver fibrosis induced by DMN in rats]

Abstract

Objective: To study the mechanism of Corydyceps polysaccharide (CP) actions against liver fibrosis.

Method: SD rats were randomly divided into normal control group, DMN-induced liver fibrosis model group and CP treated group. Model group and CP group were injected intraperitonealy with 0. 5% dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) at dose of 2 mL x kg(-1) for 4 weeks to induce liver fibrosis. Then the later group was orally taken CP for 4 weeks. Liver tissue hydroxyproline (Hyp) content was determined by Jamall's method. The liver serum of ALT and AST activities, level of albumin and total bilirubin were analyzed The liver collagen deposition and were observed with Masson' collagen stains. In addition,the tissue inhibitor of metallprteinase-2 (TIMMP-2) level, metalloproteinade-2 (MMP-2) activity, type IV collagen content were observed. Liver samples were also analyzed malondiadehyde (MDA)level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity.

Result: Compare with model group, CP improved the hepatic function (ALT, AST, Alb and Tbil). There were significant decreased of MDA content in CP group, SOD of CP group were markedly increased. Compared to those of normal control group, Hyp content, IV collagen content, TIMMP-2 level in liver tissue of model group increase significantly, and MMP-2 activity decreased, while CP decrees these pathological increase at different degrees.

Conclusion: CP exerts rather good action against liver fibrosis, and with the mechanism relating to improve degradation of the deposited collagens and anti-lipid peroxiation.