Ferulic acid ameliorates concanavalin A-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice via suppressing TGF-β/smad signaling

Background and aim

Hepatic fibrosis, one of the main reasons for death globally, is a serious complication of chronic liver disorders. However, the available therapies for liver fibrosis are limited, ineffective, and often associated with adverse events. Hence, seeking for a novel, effective therapy is warranted. Our objective was to investigate the potential efficacy of ferulic acid (FA), a phenolic phytochemical, at different doses in hindering the progress of concanavalin A (Con A)-induced hepatic fibrosis and explore the involved mechanisms.

Methods

Thirty-six mice were assorted into 6 groups (n = 6): Group I (control); group II received FA (20 mg/kg/day orally for 4 weeks); group III received Con A (6 mg/kg/week/i.v.) for 4 weeks; groups IV, V, and VI received Con A and were offered FA at 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day, respectively.

Results

The data showed the palliative effect of FA against Con A-induced fibrosis in a dose-dependent manner. This was obvious from the recovery of liver markers and hepatic architecture with the regression of fibrosis in FA-treated mice. FA abolished Con A-mediated oxidative insults and promoted the antioxidant enzyme activities, which run through the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling. Additionally, FA suppressed Con A-induced increase in NF-kB and IL-β levels, and TNF-α immune-expression. The anti-fibrotic effect of FA was evident from the drop in TGF-β, smad3 levels, α-SMA expression, and hydroxyproline content.

Conclusion

FA attenuated Con A-induced liver fibrosis through stimulating Nrf2 signaling, suppressing NF-kB, and inhibiting the TGF-β/smad3 signaling pathway. Thus FA can be considered as a promising therapy for combating liver fibrosis.