Chemoprotective Potential of Helianthemum confertum Against the Loss of Molecular and Functional Integrity of the Liver Cell in Doxorubicin-Treated Rats
The objective of the current study was led to reveal the possible protective effects of n-butanol extract of Helianthemum confertum (H. confertum) against doxorubicin (DOX) induced liver damage and its implication on the integrity of liver cells. Adult male rats were randomly divided into groups treated with plant extract (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg) for 10 days and/or injected with a single dose of DOX (10 mg/kg). Liver function as well as oxidative stress parameters and histological study were estimated. DOX treated rat’s induced hepatic dysfunction revealed by a significant increase in biochemical parameters (serum transaminases, cholesterol and triglycerides) and disturbance in oxidative stress parameters described by an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, providing information on the loss of cellular integrity. This later elicited histopathological changes in the liver which was confirmed on histological section chowing necrotic cells. Altghout the DOX-treatment reduced significantly the reduced glutathione (GSH) level and the glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. The pretreatment of the animals with n-butanol extract of H. confertumat 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg counteracted almost all adverse effects induced by DOX. The results showed a considerable decrease in serum markers of liver function and lipid peroxides. There was significant increase in the GSH level and the activity of antioxidant enzyme (GPx), which allowed the normalization of redox status in liver cells. Data suggest that DOX-induced an oxidative stress in rat’s liver and nbutanol extract of H. confertum exerted antioxidant properties.