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Optimized Analysis of In Vivo and In Vitro Hepatic Steatosis
Published on: March 11, 2017
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β-elemene ameliorates metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis by targeting PPARα in experimental
Yongqiang Xiong1,2,3, Wu Luo1,2,3, Jiaxi Ye3
1Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
British Journal of Pharmacology
|August 8, 2025
Summary
Beta-elemene (ELE) stabilizes PPARα, a key protein in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). This natural compound preserves the PPARα pathway, improving lipid balance and reducing inflammation for potential MASH therapy.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a growing global health issue with limited drug options.
- Beta-elemene (ELE), a natural compound from Curcuma Rhizoma, shows anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties.
- The therapeutic potential and mechanism of ELE in MASH remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of beta-elemene (ELE) in treating MASH.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying ELE's effects in MASH.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two diet-induced MASH models for in vivo evaluation.
- Employed RNA sequencing, network pharmacology, and target validation to uncover mechanisms.
Main Results:
- ELE significantly improved lipid dysfunction and inflammation in MASH models.
- RNA sequencing revealed ELE activates the PPARα signaling pathway.
- ELE directly binds to and stabilizes PPARα by inhibiting its ubiquitination and degradation.
Conclusions:
- ELE acts as a novel PPARα stabilizer, preventing its degradation in MASH.
- By preserving PPARα signaling, ELE enhances lipid homeostasis and reduces inflammation.
- ELE demonstrates significant potential as a therapeutic agent for MASH.

