Application of iTRAQ-Based Quantitative Proteomics Approach to Identify Deregulated Proteins Associated with Liver Toxicity Induced by Polygonum Multiflorum in Rats

Abstract

Background/Aims: Clinical reports on adverse reactions that result from Polygonum multiflorum (PM) and its preparations, especially regarding liver injury, have recently received widespread attention. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of hepatotoxicity induced by different PM extracts through iTRAQ quantitative proteomics. Methods: The different PM extracts were orally administrated for 90 days to rats, and the hepatotoxicity effect was evaluated through measurement of biochemical indexes, oxidative damage indexes and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Then, the hepatotoxicity mechanism was investigated by iTRAQ quantitative proteomics. Results: The results of biochemical and histopathological analyses showed that liver injury occurred in all groups of rats given by various PM extracts, which proved all of the PM extracts could induce hepatotoxicity. The hepatotoxicity mechanism may differ between the total extract group and the other groups through the results of biochemical indicators. The iTRAQ proteomics study showed that hepatotoxicity resulting from PM was mainly related to the abnormal activity of mitochondrion function-related oxidative phosphorylation pathways. Conclusion: This iTRAQ proteomics study revealed that the hepatotoxicity induced by PM is primarily related to the oxidative phosphorylation pathways. NADH dehydrogenase family proteins and Slc16a2 could be potential biomarkers of hepatotoxicity resulting from PM.