Identification of Yinchenwuling fang's active components and hepatoprotective effects against cholestatic liver damage induced by alpha-naphthyl isothiocyanate in mice

Yinchenwuling Fang (YCWLF), a famous traditional Chinese medicine, has been used clinically for cholestatic liver disease treatment. However, quantification analysis for YCWLF components and their pharmacological effects remains largely unknown. Therefore, we aimed to determine the YCWLF components and their activities. Quantification analysis of 12 YCWLF components was performed using a comprehensive ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with the triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry method. Then, the anti-cholestasis effect and potential mechanism of YCWLF were performed in a mouse model induced by alpha-naphthyl isothiocyanate (ANIT). YCWLF decreased serum biochemical indicators (ALT, AST, ALP, TBA, TBIL, and DBIL) and ameliorated liver tissue damage in cholestatic mice. Mechanically, YCWLF increased the expression of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and its downstream efflux transporters and metabolic enzyme genes, reversed the disordered homeostasis of bile acids, and decreased cholestatic liver injury. Based on the important role of FXR in YCWLF amelioration on cholestasis, a dual-luciferase assay was used to screen the potential agonist of FXR from 12 YCWLF components. Chlorogenic acid, 4-hydroxyacetophenone, scoparone, atractylenolide Ⅰ, atractylenolide Ⅱ, and alisol B 23-acetate exhibited an activity effect of FXR. This study provides novel a therapeutic mechanism and potential active compounds of YCWLF on cholestatic liver injury.