International Journal of Industrial Entomology and Biomaterials

Korean Society of Sericultural Science (한국잠사학회)
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The hepatoprotective effects of silkworm: Insights into molecular mechanisms and implications

  • Young-Min Han (College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University) ;
  • Da-Young Lee (College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University) ;
  • Moon-Young Song (College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University) ;
  • Seung-Won Lee (College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University) ;
  • Eun-Hee Kim (College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University)
  • Received : 2023.05.24
  • Accepted : 2023.06.23
  • Published : 2023.06.30
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Abstract

The liver, a multifunctional organ, plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being by regulating metabolism, detoxification, nutrient storage, hormone balance, and immune function. Liver diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer, have significant clinical implications and remain a global health concern. This article reviews the therapeutic potential of silkworm larvae (Bombyx mori) and explores their underlying molecular mechanisms in protecting against liver diseases. Silkworm larvae are rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and n-3 fatty acids, making them a promising candidate for therapeutic applications. The anti-inflammatory mechanisms of silkworm larvae involve modulating the production of cytokine such as TNF-α and interleukins, inflammatory enzymes including cyclooxygenase-2 and macrophage polarization, thereby attenuating liver inflammation. Silkworm larvae also exhibit anti-oxidative effects by scavenging free radicals, reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species and enhancing the liver's antioxidant defense system. Moreover, silkworms have been reported to decrease the serum alcohol concentration and lipid accumulation. Understanding the therapeutic properties of silkworm larvae contributes to the development of innovative strategies for liver injury prevention and treatment. Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise signaling pathways involved in the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects of silkworm larvae, paving the way for potential therapeutic interventions in liver diseases.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

This work was carried out with the support of "Cooperative Research Program for Agriculture Science and Technology Development (Project No. PJ017032)" Rural Development Administration, Republic of Korea.

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