Protective effect of Antroquinonol B, an active ingredient of Antrodia camphorata, on acute liver injury

Antrodia camphorata , a well-known and highly valued edible mushroom, with a concentration of triterpenoids, active polysaccharides, succinic acid, maleic acid derivatives, antroquinonol and its derivatives. Liver disease has emerged as a major global health concern. In this study, we obtained ethanol extracts and isolating three active ingredients. We then employed a mouse model to assess these ingredients and identify the most effective one. Our findings indicated that active ingredients effectively mitigated CCl 4 -induced liver injury, as evidenced by reduced serum levels of ALT, AST, and AKP in mice. Moreover, it exhibited potent antioxidant activity marked by decreased MDA levels and increased GSH and T-AOC concentrations. Animal experiments and L-O2 cell assays revealed that Antroquinonol B demonstrated strong antioxidant and anti-apoptotic activities. Through analysis of MAPKs pathway-related protein expression, we found that Antroquinonol B suppressed protein phosphorylation of p38 and JNK. These findings suggestted potential applications for Antrodia camphorata in hepatoprotection • We used the CCl 4 -induced acute liver injury model in mice to evaluate and screen out the optimal active ingredients. • Antroquinonol B could reduce the serum levels of ALT, AST and AKP in mice, and also showed good antioxidant activity, reduced the content of MDA, and increased the content of GSH and T-AOC. • Antroquinonol B in Antrodia camphorata inhibited the phosphorylation of MAPKs related proteins to achieve anti apoptotic activity.