Acanthopanax trifoliatus (L.) Merr polysaccharides: A novel therapeutic agent for hyperuricemia management

Hyperuricemia is a prevalent condition associated with an elevated risk of multiple metabolic comorbidities. There is an urgent need for novel anti-hyperuricemic agents that are both highly effective and have minimal side effects. In this study, we demonstrated that Acanthopanax trifoliatus (L.) Merr polysaccharides (ATMP) have therapeutic potential for managing hyperuricemia. ATMP effectively reduced serum uric acid levels by inhibiting hepatic production and enhancing renal excretion, without significant toxicity. It also suppressed adenosine deaminase and xanthine oxidase activity, reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, and ameliorated liver and renal impairment in hyperuricemic mice. Notably, ATMP exhibited reversible mixed-inhibition of xanthine oxidase. Overall, ATMP exerts strong hypouricemic effects and could potentially be used to treat hyperuricemia-related conditions in the future. • ATMP reduces serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemic mice by inhibiting hepatic production and enhancing renal excretion. • ATMP inhibits xanthine oxidase through a reversible mixed-type inhibition mechanism. • ATMP demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. • ATMP exhibits no significant toxic effects.