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Human Liver Microphysiological System for Assessing Drug-Induced Liver Toxicity In Vitro
Published on: January 31, 2022
Milk thistle in liver diseases: past, present, future
Ludovico Abenavoli1, Raffaele Capasso, Natasa Milic
1Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy. l.abenavoli@unicz.it
Phytotherapy Research : PTR
|June 22, 2010
Summary
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) extract, silymarin, is a well-researched natural remedy for liver disease. It functions as an antioxidant and may protect liver cells from toxins and injury.
Area of Science:
- Phytochemistry
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Silybum marianum, commonly known as milk thistle, is extensively studied for liver disease treatment.
- Its active component is silymarin, a lipophilic extract from seeds, comprising three flavonolignans: silybin, silydianin, and silychristin.
- Silybin exhibits the highest biological activity, constituting 50-70% of silymarin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on the efficacy of silymarin in liver disease treatment.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of action of silymarin in protecting the liver.
- To summarize the therapeutic applications of silymarin for various liver conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Silybum marianum and silymarin.
- Analysis of phytochemical composition and biological activities of silymarin.
- Examination of preclinical (animal) and clinical data regarding silymarin's effects on liver injury and disease.
Main Results:
- Silymarin demonstrates significant antioxidant properties, reducing free radical production and lipid peroxidation.
- It exhibits antifibrotic activity and acts as a toxin blockade agent by preventing toxin binding to hepatocytes.
- Animal studies show silymarin protects against liver injury induced by various toxins, including acetaminophen, carbon tetrachloride, and alcohol.
Conclusions:
- Silymarin is a potent natural compound with multiple mechanisms for protecting liver health.
- It has demonstrated therapeutic potential in treating alcoholic liver disease, viral hepatitis, and toxin-induced liver damage.
- Further clinical research may solidify its role as a complementary therapy for liver disorders.
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