Hepatoprotective functions of jujuboside B.

Jujuboside B (JB) found in the seeds of Zizyphi Spinosi Semen possesses pharmacological functions, such as anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet aggregation, and antianxiety potentials. This study evaluated the effect of JB on liver failure in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis. First, we observed histopathological changes in the liver by optical microscopy and the activity of enzymes in serum such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). We further measured the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nitric oxide (NO), and antioxidative parameters in liver homogenate. The expression of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1), 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the liver was observed by Western blotting. CLP enhanced the migration of inflammatory cells, ALT and AST concentrations, and necrosis, which were reduced by JB. In addition, JB reduced 11β-HSD2 expression and levels of inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, and NO) in the liver, increased GR expression, enhanced endogenous antioxidative capacity. These results further suggest that JB may protect the liver against CLP-induced damage by regulating anti-inflammatory responses, downregulating 11β-HSD2 expression and antioxidation, and up-regulating GR expression.