Modern Approaches to the Study of Hepatoprotective Agents and Their Role in the Pathophysiology of Liver Diseases: A Review of Current Research

The liver is one of the most vital organs of the human body, playing a fundamental role in regulating numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, secretion, storage, and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous substances. Due to these essential functions, liver diseases remain a major public health concern and a significant global medical problem. Despite substantial advances in modern medicine, no fully effective pharmacological agents currently exist that can reliably stimulate liver function, provide complete organ protection, or promote full regeneration of hepatocytes. Consequently, hepatoprotective agents with the potential to restore liver function and protect hepatocytes are being actively studied. This review encompasses a wide range of modern hepatoprotective and anticholestatic agents, including N-acetylcysteine, glycyrrhizic acid, polyene phosphatidylcholine, bicyclol, silymarin, ursodeoxycholic acid, S-adenosylmethionine, and cholestyramine. Promising natural compounds — flavonoids, polysaccharides, alkaloids, saponins, and lignans — which demonstrate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activity, are also discussed. The review summarizes findings from clinical and experimental studies, highlighting the efficacy of several substances and emphasizing the need for further high-quality research before their widespread implementation in clinical practice.