The present invention relates to a compound of Antrodia camphorata used
for liver protection, in particular to an extract,
4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl-
)-cyclohex-2-enone which is isolated from Antrodia camphorate. The
cyclohexenone compound according to the invention helps to alleviate
liver injury and fibrosis induced by chemicals and reduces the levels of
alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). By
increasing the contents of glutathione peroxidase (GSHPX) and catalase
(CAT), cyclohexenone further decreases the liver damage and the oxidative
pressure caused by free radicals, enhances the antioxidant ability and
achieves the purposed of liver protection.