Galla Chinensis Polysaccharide

Liver fibrosis is an adaptive pathological response to chronic liver injury and a common characteristic of various chronic liver diseases. However, effective and precise treatment options are still limited. Gallachinensis (Gc) is considered as a potential candidate agent for liver fibrosis treatment due to its bioactive properties. This study aims to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of Gc polysaccharide in mitigating CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis, focusing on its modulation of the gut-liver axis. Our findings revealed that Gc polysaccharide effectively mitigated weight loss and liver fibrosis in mice. The treatment significantly reduced serum transaminase and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels while enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity and anti-inflammatory responses. Notably, Gc polysaccharide upregulated the Nrf2 signaling pathway at both mRNA and protein levels, contributing to its hepatoprotective effects. Gut microbiota analysis revealed increased abundance of beneficial bacteria, particularly Akkermansia and Dubosiella, correlating with elevated hepatic levels of key metabolites, including butaprost, bisindolylmaleimide VIII, and irigenin, in liver tissue. These findings suggested that Gc alleviated liver fibrosis by modulating gut microbiota composition and metabolic activity. Gc activates antioxidant-related signaling pathways and alleviates liver fibrosis by regulating the gut microbiota. Thus,Gc is a promising therapeutic agent for liver fibrosis treatment.