Experimental Evidence Supporting Dauricine as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent in a Mouse Model of NAFLD
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multifactorial metabolic disorder characterized by hepatic lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Objective: To evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of dauricine, compared with silymarin, in a high‑cholesterol diet and D‑galactose-induced NAFLD in mice via anti‑inflammatory effect. Methods: Fifty male Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups: control, NAFLD‑induced, silymarin‑treated, and dauricine‑treated (5 and 10 mg/kg). Serum liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and hepatic IL‑6 levels were measured by ELISA, while histopathological changes were assessed using the NAFLD Activity Score (NAS). Results: The NAFLD group showed significant elevations in ALT, AST, and IL‑6 levels, along with marked hepatic steatosis and inflammation. Treatment with silymarin and dauricine significantly reduced these parameters, with the 10 mg dauricine group demonstrating near‑normal enzyme and cytokine levels. Histological analysis confirmed improved hepatic architecture and reduced inflammatory infiltration. Conclusion: Dauricine shows potent hepatoprotective effects through modulation of inflammatory pathways, improved liver function, and preservation of tissue integrity. The findings highlight the therapeutic promise of dauricine as a potential adjunct in managing NAFLD.
Institutions: Nahrain University, Al-Naji University
Language: English
Subfield: Hepatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7215917247