Evaluating the Protective Effects of Compound Penthorum Chinense on Liver Health in Athletes: A Study on Cholestatic Liver Injury Recovery

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the efficacy of Compound Penthorum Chinense in mitigating cholestatic liver injury in athletes, a condition potentially induced by rigorous physical exertion and exposure to certain supplements and medications commonly used in sports. The study specifically examines the protective effects against liver damage induced by α-naphthalene isothiocyanate (ANIT) in a rat model, which simulates similar metabolic stress in humans. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into several groups: a normal control, a model group induced with ANIT, a positive control group treated with a standard hepatoprotective medication (Yousufu), and groups receiving low, middle, and high doses of Compound Penthorum Chinense. Liver function was assessed 48 hours post-modeling by measuring serum markers such as total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), total bile acid (TBA), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Liver tissues were examined histologically, and the mRNA expressions of genes involved in bile acid metabolism were quantified using real-time PCR. Results: Significant increases in TBIL, DBIL, TBA, ALT, AST, and ALP levels were observed in the model group compared to the normal control, indicating liver injury. Treatment with Compound Penthorum Chinense, particularly at middle and high doses, significantly improved these markers and reduced liver enzyme elevations compared to the model group. Moreover, the treatment modified the expression of bile acid metabolism genes, suggesting a regulatory effect on both bile acid excretion and the liver's handling of exogenous chemicals. Conclusion: Compound Penthorum Chinense demonstrates a protective effect against cholestatic liver injury, which can be beneficial for athletes managing liver health against the strenuous demands of their sports activities. The modification of gene expression related to liver metabolism by this compound underscores its potential as a supportive therapy in sports medicine, helping to maintain liver function and overall athlete health. Further research is needed to explore its application and efficacy in human athletes.