The natural compounds derived from the plant Moquiniastrum polymorphum subsp. polymorphum prevent and treat liver fibrosis in vivo by reducing inflammation and fibrotic markers.

Natural compounds, such as extracts and coumaric acid from Moquiniastrum polymorphum subsp. polymorphum (MP), have shown promise as alternatives for treating inflammatory and oxidative diseases, including liver fibrosis, by reversing hepatic stellate cell activation in vitro. This study aimed to evaluate the treatment and prevention potential of MP and coumaric acid in an in vivo model of liver fibrosis. BALB/c mice were subjected to liver fibrosis induction via carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), followed by treatment with MP extracts and coumaric acid. The compounds present in the extracts were quantified using GCMS analysis. The results demonstrated that MP and coumaric acid reduced liver damage by decreasing serum enzyme levels, attenuating oxidative stress, and diminishing inflammation and fibrosis. This was supported by reduced mRNA expression of fibrotic genes such as α-SMA and Col-1, alongside inhibition of the NF-kB-mediated inflammatory pathway. These findings highlight the potential of MP extracts and coumaric acid for managing CCl4-induced liver fibrosis. Future studies are essential to isolate and characterize the active compounds, ensuring their efficacy and safety as therapeutic agents for chronic liver diseases.