Abstract

Cantharellus cibarius Fr., commonly known as the golden chanterelle, is a valued edible mushroom with notable bioactive properties. This study investigates the hepatoprotective effects of polysaccharides extracted from C. cibarius Fr. (CCP) against dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)–induced secondary liver injury. Monosaccharide analysis revealed glucose as the dominant sugar, alongside galactose, glucuronic acid, mannose and ribose. FTIR analysis identified functional groups linked to antioxidant activity, while SEM showed a porous, loosely aggregated CCP structure that may enhance reactivity and bioavailability. In vitro antioxidant assays (DPPH and ABTS) confirmed CCP’s dose-dependent radical scavenging capacity. In vivo, CCP significantly reduced DSS-induced liver damage, improving histopathological features and decreasing liver and spleen indices. CCP downregulated hepatic TLR4 and phosphorylated NF-κB expression, indicating suppressed inflammatory signalling. Serum and hepatic concentrations of proinflammatory mediators, including IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, MPO and LPS, were significantly reduced following CCP administration. Simultaneously, antioxidant defences were strengthened, as indicated by elevated hepatic levels of glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), together with reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content. CCP also enhanced Nrf2 expression, implying activation of intrinsic antioxidant signalling. These effects were dose-dependent, with stronger responses observed at higher concentrations. Collectively, the results indicate that CCP alleviates hepatic injury by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress, likely through modulation of the TLR4/NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways. To the best of current knowledge, this is the first systematic investigation of C. cibarius Fr.–derived polysaccharides in a DSS-induced liver injury model, highlighting their