Protective effect of rapeseed pollen extract on alcoholic liver injury in mice

This study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of rapeseed pollen extract (RPE) in mice with alcohol-induced liver injury and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. The chemical composition of RPE was characterized using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). An experimental murine model of alcoholic liver injury was established to assess its biological activity. A total of 64 compounds were identified, predominantly comprising flavonoids, triterpenoids, alkaloids, lipids, and sterols. RPE administration significantly reduced serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglycerides (TG), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Hepatic activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were increased, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were decreased. Histopathological examination demonstrated attenuation of liver injury, and immunohistochemical analysis revealed increased expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1). These results indicate that RPE exerts protective effects against alcohol-induced liver injury through modulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development and application of rapeseed pollen in functional foods for liver protection.