Verbenalin attenuates hepatic damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in
alcohol-associated steatohepatitis by regulating MDMX/PPARα-mediated
ferroptosis
Abstract
Alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) is one of the predominant causes of
liver-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, effective
therapy for ASH is still lacking. Notably, increasing evidence indicates
ferroptosis may counteract the injury of the ASH. We recently identified
a novel strategy for attenuating ASH by an effective adjuvant via
ferroptosis through targeting MDMX. Verbenalin, which is a major
compound in Verbena officials L (Verbenaceae), is generally recognized
as a kind of safe food by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In this
study, we found for the first time that Verbenalin is protective against
alcoholic liver injury through transmission electron microscopy, Fe2+
content detection and other research methods. Its effect can not only
inhibit oxidative stress such as MDA, SOD, GSH, ROS, 4-HNE and other
related indicators, but also inhibit the ferroptosis of hepatocytes
caused by alcohol. It was further confirmed by computer docking that
verbenalin was targeted to inhibit MDMX activity, promote PPAR-alpha
activation, and inhibit alcohol-induced ferroptosis in hepatocytes.
Hence, Verbenalin might be employed as a promising natural supplement
for alcoholic liver injury drug therapy.