Jageum-Jung, the herbal pharmaceuticals, inhibits the hepatic fibrogenesis as mediated with TGF-β1/smad signaling

Background Herbal prescriptions have various effects and their efficacy is potentiated by the use of combinations of medicinal herbs. Objective Jageum-Jung (JGJ) is a traditional oriental medical prescription composed of five herbs. It has been used for detoxification, and as an anti-inflammatory and antitumor agent. However, the effect of JGJ on hepatic fibrogenesis is unclear. Results We investigated the role of JGJ in TGF-β1/smad signaling, which is implicated in fibrogenesis, and its hepatoprotective effect in CCl 4 -treated mice with liver fibrosis. Treatment of LX-2 cells with TGF-β induced expression of mediators (α-SMA, PAI-1, and MMP-2) of fibrogenesis and activation of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6). However, these were downregulated by pretreatment with JGJ. In mice, oral administration of JGJ prevented liver injury induced by CCl 4 , as indicated by decreases in the ALT and AST levels. Conclusions JGJ inhibits hepatic fibrogenesis and TGF-β1/Smad signaling.