To assess the effects on eicosanoid production observed here with respect to the hepatoprotective properties of silibinin, it is necessary to note that the liver plays a central role in arachidonic acid metabolism. The liver is a target organ for eicosanoid action. However prostaglandins and leukotrienes cause opposite effects in inflammatory processes of the liver. Models of experimental liver damage point to hepatoprotective properties of prostaglandins. Furthermore, prostaglandins are used in humans for the treatment of fulminant hepatic failure and after liver transplantation.
Prostaglandins are modulators of inflammation.
Along with this, LTB 4 release by activated immune cells is decreased. LTB 4 acts as a powerful chemotactic agent on leukocytes leading to their attraction, adhesion, and accumulation. Because PGE 2 displays protective properties, it seems undesirable to reduce its formation in inflammatory process of the liver. On the other hand, an inhibition of the injurious properties of LTB 4 ought to be a very important feature of a liver therapeutic drug. Next, the information found at the particular web sites of the Herbal Information Center and Milk Thistle strongly supports the scientific information found through the Drug Information Center.