Beneficial Effects of Corylin on Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a globally prevalent condition, can lead to serious complications, such as liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and an increased risk of hepatic failure and mortality. MAFLD progression is influenced by various factors, including lipid overload, mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and inflammation. Corylin, a flavonoid extracted from Psoralea corylifolia L., possesses multiple beneficial properties, including anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, antiobesity, and antioxidant effects, and can alleviate hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance. However, the beneficial potential of corylin for MAFLD has not been explored. Herein, we investigated the effects of corylin on MAFLD.

Corylin reduced plasma hyperglycemia, ROS levels, lipid accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis in livers of high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice; additionally, it improved insulin resistance and enhanced glycogen synthesis. In palmitic acid (PA)-treated HepG2 cells, corylin decreased excessive lipogenesis, ROS production, and mitochondrial dysfunction while promoting glucose uptake, glycogen synthesis, and mitochondrial activation. Furthermore, corylin reduced inflammation in PA-treated RAW264.7 macrophages and decreased fibrotic protein expression in TGF-β-treated LX-2 hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). The regulatory effects of corylin on PA-treated HepG2 cells and RAW264.7 macrophages were mediated through adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase regulation; however, similar effects were not observed in transforming growth factor beta-stimulated LX-2 HSCs.

These findings suggest that corylin has anti-ROS, anti-inflammatory, antilipogenic, and antifibrotic properties.

Consequently, corylin is a promising beneficial candidate for the treatment of MAFLD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 44, 910-927.