Recently, a study utilizing modified citrus pectin (MCP), provided by Zhejiang Gold Kropn Biotechnology Co., Ltd. as the primary experimental material, was conducted through animal experiments by institutions including the Baotou Medical College of Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, the Department of Critical Care Medicine at the First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, the Baotou Medical College Rheumatology and Immunology Research Institute, and the Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Autoimmunity.
Experimental Methods:
The study involved grouping laboratory mice, with the MCP treatment group (named the TREAT group) consisting of three mice. The experimental procedures included establishing animal models, administering treatments, conducting drug administration and processing, RNA-Seq sequencing, data analysis, and bioinformatics analysis of MCP's therapeutic effects on RA-ILD (rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease).
Experimental Results:
Lung Appearance: The TREAT group exhibited lung coloration intermediate between the model group and the control group, with slight white nodules and ecchymosis observed. However, significant improvement was noted compared to the model group.
Lung Tissue Analysis: The model group displayed severe structural deformation, extensive fibrosis, and "honeycomb lung" formation. In contrast, the TREAT group showed reduced collagen fiber deposition, alleviated fibrotic manifestations, decreased inflammatory cells, and largely normal alveolar wall structure.
Staining and Collagen Measurement: Histopathological staining revealed normal lung structure without fibrosis in the control group. The model group exhibited substantial collagen deposition and severe fibrosis. The TREAT group demonstrated reduced collagen deposition and mitigated fibrosis, as confirmed by semi-quantitative measurement of collagen-positive areas.
Discussion:
Pathological findings from the TREAT group confirmed MCP's therapeutic role in RA-ILD. Modified citrus pectin (MCP), a water-soluble dietary fiber derived from citrus fruit peels, possesses anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-fibrotic properties. Studies indicate that MCP antagonizes galectin-3 (Gal-3), a protein that promotes extracellular matrix (ECM) cross-linking lattice formation and plays a critical role in fibrosis progression. MCP has demonstrated significant anti-fibrotic effects in the heart, liver, and kidneys.