Effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate on expression of hepcidin mRNA in liver of mice with alcoholic liver disease

Objective To study effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate ( EGCG) on hepcidin mRNA in liver of mice with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and to explore its mechanism.Methods C57/BL6 mice were randomly divided into a normal group and a model group. Alcoholic liver disease was induced by gavage of alcohol for 12 weeks.At the end of 8 weeks,the alcohol group was divided into a model group and three EGCG groups(10,20,and 30 mg·kg^-1).The mice in the EGCG groups received an intraperitoneal injection of EGCG and simultaneous intragastric administration of alcohol for 4 weeks.Liver injuries were assessed with histopathologic examination and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT),aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels.In addition,liver iron levels were evaluated.Hepcidin mRNA in liver tissue was also determined with real-time PCR.Results The mice in model group had marked increases in serum ALT,AST levels and liver iron concentration compared with normal group,and their liver tissues showed moderate hepatocyte fatty degeneration.But the mice in EGCG groups had decreased ALT,AST levels and liver iron concentration and improved pathological changes.Liver hepcidin mRNA expression level was decreased significantly in model group compared with the normal group,but markedly increased in EGCG treatment groups.Conclusion Compared with model group,the hepcidin mRNA expression in livers of EGCG treatment ALD mice increases,and EGCG may play a protective role in the development of ALD.The possible mechanism of the effect may relate to EGCG inhibiting iron absorption in small intestine by the upregulation of hepcidin.