Hematopoietic protective effects of Guiqi crucian carp decoction on chemotherapy-induced leukopenia in rats

Abstract: Background: Chemotherapy-induced leukopenia is a common dose-limiting toxicity that compromises treatment continuity and increases the risk of infection. Current pharmacological interventions are often associated with adverse effects, highlighting the need for safe and effective supportive strategies. Guiqi crucian carp decoction (GQCCD), a traditional dietary therapy derived from the concept of medicine–food homology, has been used to replenish qi and nourish blood; however, its hematopoietic protective effects have not been systematically evaluated. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the hematopoietic and immunoprotective effects of GQCCD in a rat model of chemotherapy-induced leukopenia. Methods: A leukopenia model was established in rats using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Rats were divided into a blank control group, model group, positive control group (batyl alcohol) and GQCCD-treated group. Peripheral blood parameters, including white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil (NE UT), lymphocyte (LYMPH) and monocyte (MONO) counts, were measured at different time points. Thymus and spleen indices were calculated and histopathological examinations of bone marrow, spleen and thymus were performed. Results: 5-FU administration induced significant leukopenia, accompanied by reduced thymus and spleen indices and marked histopathological damage in immune organs and bone marrow. Compared with the model group, GQCCD treatment significantly increased WBC and NEUT counts and MONO percentage (P < 0.01), along with significant improvements in thymus and spleen indices (P < 0.01). Histopathological analysis revealed substantial restoration of bone marrow and immune organ structures. No statistically significant improvement in LYMPH counts was observed. Conclusion: GQCCD effectively alleviated chemotherapy-induced leukopenia in rats by restoring peripheral blood parameters, improving immune organ indices and ameliorating bone marrow and immune organ damage. These findings support the potential of GQCCD as a complementary dietary therapy for managing chemotherapy-related myelosuppression.