Schisandrol B is a lignan originally isolated from S. chinensis that has hepatoprotective activity. It increases the expression of pregnane X receptor (PXR) target genes involved in bile acid metabolism, including Cyp3a11, Ugt1a1, Oatp2, and Mrp3 in mouse liver and CYP3A4, UGT1A1, and OATP2 in HEK293T cells. It also protects against lithocholic acid-induced hepatic necrosis and intrahepatic cholestasis in wild-type, but not Pxr-null, mice and decreases mortality in a mouse model of cholestasis when administered at a dose of 100 mg/kg twice per day. It also promotes liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy and protects against hepatotoxicity induced by acetaminophen .
