Jageum-Jung, the herbal pharmaceuticals, inhibits the hepatic fibrogenesis as mediated with TGF-beta 1/smad signaling

Abstract

Background Herbal prescriptions have various effects and their efficacy is potentiated by the use of combinations of medicinal herbs. Objective Jageum-Jung (JGJ) is a traditional oriental medical prescription composed of five herbs. It has been used for detoxification, and as an anti-inflammatory and antitumor agent. However, the effect of JGJ on hepatic fibrogenesis is unclear. Results We investigated the role of JGJ in TGF-beta 1/smad signaling, which is implicated in fibrogenesis, and its hepatoprotective effect in CCl4-treated mice with liver fibrosis. Treatment of LX-2 cells with TGF-beta induced expression of mediators (alpha-SMA, PAI-1, and MMP-2) of fibrogenesis and activation of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IL-6). However, these were downregulated by pretreatment with JGJ. In mice, oral administration of JGJ prevented liver injury induced by CCl4, as indicated by decreases in the ALT and AST levels. Conclusions JGJ inhibits hepatic fibrogenesis and TGF-beta 1/Smad signaling.