Polysaccharide Peptide (PSP) and Hepatitis: Evidence Synopsis

Polysaccharide peptide (PSP) is a bioactive compound extracted from the mushroom Coriolus versicolor (also known as Trametes versicolor). Its use for liver health, particularly in hepatitis, stems primarily from its immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective properties observed in preclinical studies. Animal studies have shown that PSP can reduce liver inflammation and damage caused by certain toxins or hepatitis viruses. Some studies in rodent models of viral hepatitis demonstrated that PSP administration reduced markers of liver injury, improved antioxidant enzyme activity, and modulated immune responses, potentially curbing liver fibrosis and promoting hepatocyte regeneration.

Human clinical data, however, remain sparse. While PSP is widely studied for cancer and immune support in Asia, there are only a few small-scale clinical studies or case reports relating to hepatitis. Most available evidence comes from in vitro or animal research rather than robust, controlled human trials. Reviews and pharmacological texts acknowledge PSP’s potential but also emphasize the need for more rigorous human studies to confirm efficacy and safety in hepatitis patients.

In summary, while there is preliminary scientific evidence suggesting PSP may help support liver health and modulate immune responses relevant to hepatitis, the clinical evidence is limited and does not yet provide strong validation for its therapeutic use in this condition.