Integrated 16 S rRNA gene sequencing and serum metabolomics approaches to decipher the mechanism of Qingre Lidan decoction in the treatment of cholestatic liver injury.

Background: Cholestasis is a commonly occurring disorder induced by impaired bile flow, for which there is no effective treatment so far. Qingre Lidan decoction (QRLD) is a clinically used herbal compound for the long-term treatment of bile circulation disorders arising from inflammation and obstruction in the gallbladder and bile ducts. The objective of this study was to investigate the protective effect of QRLD on cholestatic liver injury and its possible mechanism.