Silymarin inhibits the lipogenic pathway and reduces worsening of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mice

Abstract

Context The role of silymarin in hepatic lipid dysfunction and its possible mechanisms of action were investigated. Objective To evaluate the effects of silymarin on hepatic and metabolic profiles in mice fed with 30% fructose for 8 weeks. Methods We evaluated the antioxidant profile of silymarin; mice consumed 30% fructose and were treated with silymarin (120 mg/kg/day or 240 mg/kg/day). We performed biochemical, redox status, and histopathological assays. RT-qPCR was performed to detect ACC-1, ACC-2, FAS, and CS expression, and western blotting to detect PGC-1α levels. Results Silymarin contains high levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids and exhibited significant antioxidant capacity in vitro. In vivo, the fructose-fed groups showed increased levels of AST, ALT, SOD/CAT, TBARS, hepatic TG, and cholesterol, as well as hypertriglyceridaemia, hypercholesterolaemia, and increased ACC-1 and FAS. Silymarin treatment reduced these parameters and increased mRNA levels and activity of hepatic citrate synthase. Conclusions These results suggest that silymarin reduces worsening of NAFLD.