Effect of hydroxy-α-sanshool on lipid metabolism in liver and hepatocytes based on AMPK signaling pathway

With the increasing awareness of the safety of traditional Chinese medicine and food, as well as in-depth studies on the pharmacological activity and toxicity of Zanthoxylum armatum DC. (ZADC), it has been found that ZADC is hepatotoxic. However, the toxic substance basis and mechanism of action have not been fully elucidated. Hydroxy-α-sanshool (HAS) belongs to an amide compound in the fruits of ZADC, which may be hepatotoxic. However, the specific effects of HAS, including liver toxicity, are unclear.