Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Activity of Adansonia digitata Extract on Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Hepatoprotective effects of fruits pulp, seed, and peel against chemical-induced toxicity: Insights from in vivo studies

The liver is a vital organ in human physiology positioned in the upper right quadrant of the peritoneal cavity, which plats a critical role in metabolic processes, detoxification of various substances and overall homeostasis. Along with these critical functions, hepatic diseases impose as significant global health threat. Liver illness is the cause of two million fatalities every year, or 4% of all deaths. Traditionally, healthcare providers have prescribed antibacterial and antiviral medications to address liver illness. Nephrotoxicity is a frequently observed negative reaction to drugs, with the majority of such events happening in individuals who have advanced cirrhosis. Thus, recognizing this gap, there is a dire need of exploration of pharmaceutical alterative for hepatic diseases, with special focus on their efficacy and reduced toxicity. Fruits have long been known to therapeutic impact on human health, thus exploration of fruits components namely pulp, seeds and peels containing phytochemicals have emerged as a promising avenue for hepatoprotective interventions. Thus, review comprehends the information about worldwide burden of chemical induced toxicity and injuries as well as highlight the on-going challenges in hepatic disease management. It also shed light on the valuable contributions fruit parts and their phytocompounds obtained from different components of fruits. Fruit pulp, especially when rich in flavonoids, has demonstrated significant potential in animal model studies. It has been observed to enhance the activity of antioxidant enzymes and reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory markers. The methanolic and ethanolic extracts have demonstrated the most favorable outcomes. Further, this review also discusses about the safety assessments of fruits extracts for their utilization as hepatoprotective agents.

Metabolic Composition of Methanolic Extract of the Balkan Endemic Species Micromeria frivaldszkyana (Degen) Velen and Its Anti-Inflammatory Effect on Male Wistar Rats

Extracts from medicinal plants are widely used in the treatment and prevention of different diseases. Micromeria frivaldszkyana is a Balkan endemic species with reported antioxidant and antimicrobial characteristics; however, its phytochemical composition is not well defined. Here, we examined the metabolome of M. frivaldszkyana by chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS-MS), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Amino acids, organic acids, sugars, and sugar alcohols were the primary metabolites with the highest levels in the plant extract. Detailed analysis of the sugar content identified high levels of sucrose, glucose, mannose, and fructose. Lipids are primary plant metabolites, and the analysis revealed triacylglycerols as the most abundant lipid group. Potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), and calcium (Ca) were the elements with the highest content. The results showed linarin, 3-caffeoil-quinic acid, and rosmarinic acid, as well as a number of polyphenols, as the most abundant secondary metabolites. Among the flavonoids and polyphenols with a high presence were eupatorin, kaempferol, and apigenin-compounds widely known for their bioactive properties. Further, the acute toxicity and potential anti-inflammatory activity of the methanolic extract were evaluated in Wistar rats. No toxic effects were registered after a single oral application of the extract in doses of between 200 and 5000 mg/kg bw. A fourteen-day pre-treatment with methanolic extract of M. frivaldszkyana in doses of 250, 400, and 500 mg/kg bw induced anti-inflammatory activity in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd hours after carrageenan injection in a model of rat paw edema. This effect was also present in the 4th hour only in the group treated with a dose of 500 mg/kg. In conclusion, M. frivaldszkyana extract is particularly rich in linarin, rosmarinic acid, and flavonoids (eupatorin, kaempferol, and apigenin). Its methanolic extract induced no toxicity in male Wistar rats after oral application in doses of up to 5000 mg/kg bw. Additionally, treatment with the methanolic extract for 14 days revealed anti-inflammatory potential in a model of rat paw edema on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd hours after the carrageenan injection. These results show the anti-inflammatory potential of the plant, which might be considered for further exploration and eventual application as a phytotherapeutic agent.

Nutritional, Physicochemical, Microstructural, Rheological, and Organoleptical Characteristics of Ice Cream Incorporating Adansonia digitata Pulp Flour

Ice cream's appeal is unrivaled. Nonmilk and milk ingredients in ice cream formulas affect their nutritional value, structure, and organoleptical qualities. Seeking novel dietary ingredients instead of artificial flavoring compounds is vital for improving ice cream taste preference, adding antioxidants, and increasing nutritional value. The current study examines the feasibility of manufacturing a new flavored ice cream with excellent dietary value using Adansonia digitata L. (Baobab) fruit pulp (ADFP). The prepared ice cream's physicochemical and microbiological quality, and rheological, microstructural, and organoleptic properties were investigated. Using ADFP instead of skim milk powder with a partial or complete replacement, five ice cream samples were produced and marked as IB-0, IB-25, IB-50, IB-75, and IB-100. Chemical characteristics were not noticeably impacted except protein and ash, which considerably decreased with increasing ADFP levels. Increasing ADFP in the samples increased titratable acidity and reduced pH. All ice cream samples were microbiologically acceptable with no pathogenic bacteria. By increasing ADFP in the samples, the daily values (%DV) of sodium, potassium, and magnesium were not considerably affected. Calcium reduced from 14.91% in IB-0 to 7.75% in IB-100. All microelements found in the study rose considerably as ADFP increased. Increasing ADFP levels significantly boosted antioxidant levels. The IB-100 sample had the highest total phenolic content (149.29 mg GAE 100 g^-1), antioxidant activity (98.12 µmol of TE 100 g^-1), total flavonoids (5.96 mg QE 100 g^-1), and total flavanols (4.01 mg QE 100 g^-1). The inclusion of ADFP had a beneficial effect on the color of the samples. It did not negatively affect the ice cream's organoleptic acceptability as determined by organoleptic, rheological, and microstructural examinations. Interestingly, when skim milk powder was replaced with 50% and 75%, the hardness, viscosity, and aqueous phase separation were significantly improved. In conclusion, ADPF improves the nutritional value of ice cream and can be used as a natural coloring ingredient without affecting microstructural and rheological properties.

Acetaminophen induced hepatotoxicity: An overview of the promising protective effects of natural products and herbal formulations

BACKGROUND

The liver plays an important role in regulating the metabolic processes and is the most frequently targeted organ by toxic chemicals. Acetaminophen (APAP) is a well-known anti-allergic, anti-pyretic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which upon overdose leads to hepatotoxicity, the major adverse event of this over-the-counter drug.

PURPOSE

APAP overdose induced acute liver injury is the second most common cause that often requires liver transplantation worldwide, for which N-acetyl cysteine is the only synthetic drug clinically approved as an antidote. So, it was felt that there is a need for the novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of liver diseases with less adverse effects. This review provides detailed analysis of the different plant extracts; phytochemicals and herbal formulations for the amelioration of APAP-induced liver injury.

METHOD

The data was collected using different online resources including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Springer, and Web of Science using keywords given below.

RESULTS

Over the past decades various reports have revealed that plant-based approaches may be a better treatment choice for the APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in pre-clinical experimental conditions. Moreover, herbal compounds provide several advantages over the synthetic drugs with fewer side effects, easy availability and less cost for the treatment of life-threatening diseases.

CONCLUSION

The current review summarizes the hepatoprotective effects and therapeutic mechanisms of various plant extracts, active phytoconstituents and herbal formulations with potential application against APAP induced hepatotoxicity as the numbers of hepatoprotective natural products are more without clinical relativity. Further, pre-clinical pharmacological research will contribute to the designing of natural products as medicines with encouraging prospects for clinical application.

Adansonia digitata L. fruit shell extract alleviates lead-induced neurotoxicity in mice via modulation of oxidative stress and a possible chelating activity

BACKGROUND

Lead is a ubiquitous environmental heavy metal known to induce neurotoxicity. It has been postulated that substance with high antioxidant capacity could alleviate lead-induced neurotoxicity. Adansonia digitata fruit shell extract (ADFS) has been reported to have high phenolic contents and exerts antioxidant activity. This study investigated the effects of Adansonia digitata fruit shell extract on lead-induced neurotoxicity in mice.

METHODS

Male balb/c mice (n = 7) were administered with Pb-acetate (50 mg/kg) 30 mins before ADFS (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) or succimer (50 mg/kg) per orally for 28 days. Motor activities were evaluated on days 29 and 30 through horizontal bar and open field tests respectively. Further, spectrophotometry, atomic absorption spectrophotometry and haematoxylin and eosin staining were carried-out to determine the expression of oxidative stress biomarkers, level of lead concentration in the brain and histology of the cerebellum respectively.

RESULTS

Lead acetate exposure significantly (p < 0.05) induced motor deficits in horizontal bar test and open field test, caused oxidative stress, high concentration of lead in the brain as well as histological aberration in the cerebellum. ADFS significantly (p < 0.05) reversed the motor deficits evident by increased muscle strength and number of lines crossed. Further, ADFS significantly reversed oxidative stress evident by increased levels of SOD, CAT and GSH and decreased level of MDA. There was also significant (p < 0.05) decrease in brain lead concentration as well as reduced cerebellar cells death.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest that ADFS attenuated motor deficits via inhibition of oxidative stress and chelating activity which is comparable to succimer. Hence, ADFS should be explored for possible development of chelating agent against lead and other heavy metals toxicity.

Preventive Effects of Mandarin Fruit Peel Hydroethanolic Extract, Hesperidin, and Quercetin on Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatonephrotoxicity in Wistar Rats

Acetaminophen, also known as N-acetyl-para-aminophenol (NAPAP), is a traditional antipyretic and analgesic that is used extensively around the world to treat colds and fevers. However, a NAPAP excess causes rapid, severe liver and kidney damage. The goal of the study was to examine the protective effects and determine the mechanisms of action of MPHE, hesperidin, and quercetin in NAPAP-induced hepatorenal damage in Wistar rats. Male Wistar rats received a 0.5 g/kg oral supplement of NAPAP every other day for a period of four weeks. During the same period of NAPAP supplementation, MPHE (50 mg/kg), quercetin (20 mg/kg), and hesperidin (20 mg/kg) were administered to rats receiving NAPAP. MPHE, quercetin, and hesperidin treatments significantly improved liver function in NAPAP-supplemented rats. The high serum levels of aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, and γ-glutamyl transferase as well as total bilirubin were significantly reduced, while the levels of suppressed serum albumin were significantly increased, demonstrating this improvement. Treatments utilizing these natural substances significantly enhanced kidney function as seen by a considerable decline in the increased blood levels of urea, uric acid, and creatinine. Additionally, the injection of MPHE, hesperidin, and quercetin resulted in a decrease in the quantity of lipid peroxides while increasing the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase in the liver and kidneys. The treatments markedly abated the NAPAP-induced liver and kidney histological perturbations and reduced the NAPAP-induced serum tumor necrosis factor-α level and liver and kidney proapoptotic protein 53 and caspase 3 expressions. Otherwise, serum interleukin-4 level significantly increased by treatments. The MPHE, hesperidin, and quercetin treatments resulted in marked decrease in liver and kidney histopathological scores including inflammation, necrosis, apoptosis, and congestion. In conclusion, the MPHE, quercetin, and hesperidin may induce hepatonephropreventive impacts in NAPAP-supplemented rats via enhancing the antioxidant defense system, anti-inflammatory activity, and antiapoptotic action.

Ameliorative effect of ethanolic extract of Limnophila rugosa (Scrophulariaceae) in paracetamol- and carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Background

Limnophila rugosa (Scrophulariaceae) is a perennial aquatic plant used as a diuretic and digestive tonic as well as in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia and urinary ailments. Genus Limnophila has been reported as hepatoprotective. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of the ethanolic extract of L. rugosa aerial part in paracetamol- and carbon tetrachloride-induced (CCl4) hepatotoxicity in albino Wistar rats. Ethanolic extract was subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis for the estimation of phenolic and flavonoid compounds and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis for phytochemical analysis. The in vitro antioxidant activity was carried out by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, nitric oxide radical and hydrogen peroxide assay. Hepatoprotective potential of L. rugosa was studied in paracetamol (750 mg/mg)- and CCl4 (1.25 ml/kg)-induced liver damage in albino rats at dose 200 and 300 mg/kg using silymarin (100 mg/kg) as standard. Lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) were determined in liver tissue homogenate. Serum biochemical and histopathological examination was performed. Molecular docking analysis was performed to understand the molecular mechanism of hepatoprotective activity.

Results

HPLC analysis revealed predominance of rutin. GC–MS analysis revealed camphor as principal component. Ethanolic extract exhibited significant concentration-dependent scavenging efficacy. The altered biochemical chemical parameters: aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, cholesterol, albumin, globulin and total protein, were significantly improved at 200 and 300 mg/kg in experimental rats. Extract signified hepatoprotective by decreasing lipid peroxidation and upregulating SOD, CAT and GSH. The findings were well supported by histological analysis. 2-Butyl-2, 7-octadien-1-ol (-5.8) and camphor (-4.8) gave the highest docking score on the transforming growth factor-β1.

Conclusions

The ameliorative effect of L. rugosa in the rat model of hepatotoxicity could be attributed to its antioxidant potential and bioactive principles such as betulin, 5-hydroxy-6,7,4′-trimethoxyflavone (salvigenin), betulinic acid, ursolic acid, 3-octanol, acetophenone, anisylacetone, caryophyllene, cis-anethole and the compounds camphor and 2-butyl-2,7-octadien-1-ol identified from GC–MS analysis.

Aqueous fruit pulp extract of Adansonia digitata (L) protects against lead-acetate-induced hepato-renal damage in rat model

Background

Adansonia digitata (L) fruit has a multi-purpose function one among many, is the antioxidant activities of the fruit by preventing oxidative stress. The effect of Adansonia digitata (L) fruit on lead-induced liver and kidney damage is not clear. Hence, the study was aimed to assessed the protective role of Adansonia digitata (L) fruits against lead acetate induced changes in the liver and kidney function test parameters and the histology of both organ in experimental rats. The rats were divided into five groups with five rats each. All the rats were administered with respective assigned treatment once daily for 6 weeks. Rats in groups I were administered with just distil water (2 ml/kg). Rats in groups II were administered with lead acetate (30 mg/kg) while rats in groups III–V were administered Adansonia digitatata (L) fruit extract (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) and Succimer (5 mg/kg) respectively, then additionally challenged with lead acetate (30 mg/kg) immediately after. At the end of the administration, the blood serum from the experimental rats were used for biochemical analysis. Then, the the organs such as the liver and kidney collected for histological study.

Results

Rats administered with Lead acetate showed an increase in AST, ALP and ALT as well as increase in urea and creatinine level (p < 0.001), when compared with the control group (group I), where as Adansonia digitatata (L) fruit prevented the effect (upsurge of serum, Urea, Creatinine, AST, ALP and ALT) of lead acetate. Rats administer with only Lead acetate revealed marked liver steatosis and the degeneration of the kidney glomerulus. The Adansonia digitatata (L) fruit extract and Succimer prevented the histological liver steatosis, as well as the degeneration of the glomerulus of the kidney cytoarchitecture.

Conclusion

The findings in this study suggest that Adansonia digitata fruits extract has a protective potentials against lead acetate induced liver and kidney toxicity by preventing the upsurge of liver function enzymes and kidney function parameters. Hence, Adansonia digitata fruits can serve as a natural plant agent that can prevent hepato-renal toxicity. Therefore, Adansonia digitata holds future prospects in preclinical framework to ameliorate organs toxicity for oral therapeutic applications.

Xylogalacturonan-enriched pectin from the fruit pulp of Adansonia digitata: Structural characterization and antidepressant-like effect

The low methyl-esterified and acetylated xylogalacturonan (DM 20 %, DA 2 %, Mw ∼ 58 kDa) was isolated by water extraction for 4 h × 2 at 50 °C (yield 23 %) from the pulp of baobab fruit (Adansonia digitata L.). Subsequent tightening of the conditions for water extraction by mean increasing the temperature to 70 °C and time to 12 h led to the co-extraction of small amounts of starch components and RG I with xylogalacturonan. Structural analysis (DEAE-cellulose ion-exchange chromatography, HPSEC, monosaccharide analysis, NMR spectroscopy) revealed that about 12 mol. % of 1,4-linked α-GalpA residues were substituted by single β-Xylp residues at the O-3 position. The xylogalacturonan was found to possess an antidepressant-like effect in mice. The study offers using the baobab fruit as a rich source of soluble dietary fiber - water-soluble pectin with beneficial physiological effect.

Nutritional and Rheological Characteristics of Composite Flour Substituted with Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) Pulp Flour for Cake Manufacturing and Organoleptic Properties of Their Prepared Cakes

Revalorization of Adansonia digitata L. "Baobab" pulp flour (BPF) to produce a notorious and functional cake in the current study was assessed. Wheat flour (WF 72%) was partially substituted by BPF at 5, 10, and 15% to prepare composite flour (WF + BPF) for potential cake manufacturing. Approximate chemical composition, macro- and microelements content, amino acids (AAs), total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity (AOA) of partially substituted composite flour (WF + BPF) were determined. The rheological properties of the composite flours were assessed using MIXOLAB. Moreover, an organoleptic evaluation of the baked cakes was performed with 20 trained panelists. The substitution with BPF significantly increased the total ash and crude fiber content in composite flour in a level-dependent manner, while moisture, crude fat, crude protein, available carbohydrates contents, and energy values were not significantly changed. Interestingly, macroelements such as Ca, K, and P were significantly increased, while Na was significantly decreased, whereas Mg content was not significantly changed. Similarly, microelements such as Zn, Fe, and Cu increased with the increase of BPF substitution. Significant increases in TPC and AOA were found by increasing the substitution with BPF. The biological value (BV), essential amino acid index (EAAI), protein efficiency ratio (PER), as well as essential amino acids (EAAs) requirement index (RI) were positively improved in WF + BPF. Adding BPF up to 10% not only improved the water absorption, α-amylase activity, and viscosity, but also caused a slight weakness in the gluten network, to produce a composite flour suitable for cake making. Conclusively, this study revealed that fortification with BPF up to 5-10% improved the nutritional quality without adverse effects on technological, and organoleptic characteristics and providing economic, commercial, and health benefits.

In Vitro Antioxidant Activities and the Therapeutic Potential of Some Newly Synthesized Chalcones Against 4-Acetaminophenol Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

The lack of safety and efficacy of existing hepatoprotective agents urge the need to explore novel hepatoprotective agents. The research work was planned to study the therapeutic potential of some newly synthesized chalcones against 4-acetaminophenol induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Male albino rats (N = 30) were divided into 6 groups of 5 animals each i.e. group I; Toxic control (4-acetaminophenol), group II; normal control (Normal saline), group III; Positive control (silymarin; 50 mg/kg bw) and groups IV-VI (test groups) treated with 3 chalcone analogues i-e 3a, 3f & 3 g (100, 150, 150 mg/kg bw, respectively). All the study group animals were administered with 4-acetaminophenol to induce hepatotoxicity except normal control. Following hepatotoxicity induction, test group animals were administered with selected doses of test compounds and toxic group animals left untreated. Liver enzymes including ALT, AST, ALP and serum bilirubin were determined photometrically. Antioxidant activities of test compounds were also determined. Histopathological examination of liver biopsies was also carried out through H & E staining. The test chalcones (3a, 3f & 3 g) significantly decreased the levels of liver enzymes and serum bilirubin toward normal and the pattern of results in the test group animals were comparable to silymarin administered animals indicating the hepatoprotective potential of test compounds. Moreover, the test chalcones (3a, 3f & 3 g) antagonized the effect of 4-acetaminophenol and thus, raised the catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) while decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) in experimental animals. The test chalcones (3a, 3f & 3 g) on histological examination of liver showed improvement of tissue morphology. The study concluded that the tested compounds have antioxidant potential and may act as hepatoprotective agent. However, in-depth studies are required to validate their safety and to elucidate the exact mechanism of action.

Aqueous extract of Adansonia digitata prevents Cadmium Chloride-induced testicular damage in Wistar Rats

OBJECTIVES

The role of aqueous extract of Adansonia digitata was investigated against cadmium chloride-induced testicular damage in Wistar Rats.

METHODS

Thirty (30) male Wistar Rats weighing (150-170) were divided into six groups (n=5). Group A served as control and received oral administration of phosphate buffer saline; group B received 800 mg/kg A. digitata only; group C were injected intraperitoneally with single dose 2 mg/kg b.w cadmium chloride; group D were injected intraperitoneally with single dose 2 mg/kg b.w cadmium chloride and treated with 800 mg/kg aqueous extract of A. digitata; group E received 300 mg/kg vitamin E only; group F were injected intraperitoneally with single dose 2 mg/kg b.w cadmium chloride and treated with 300 mg/kg vitamin E. After 21 days, the animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, the testes were excised fixed in Bouins fluids for histological analysis and the other homogenized in 5% sucrose solution for determination of tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzyme activity, biochemical assay.

RESULTS

The group treated with cadmium chloride plus A. digitata caused significant decrease in MDA levels with significant increase (p<0.05) in antioxidant activities and biochemical enzymes when compared to cadmium chloride only group.

CONCLUSIONS

Aqueous extract of A. digitata appears to have ameliorative effect against cadmium chloride-induced testicular damage. This could be attributed to the presence of polyphenolic compound.

In vitro Antioxidant and in vivo Hepatoprotective Activities of Root Bark Extract and Solvent Fractions of Croton macrostachyus Hochst. Ex Del. (Euphorbiaceae) on Paracetamol-Induced Liver Damage in Mice

Background

Liver disease is a major public health threat, particularly in developing countries. Several medicinal plants and formulations have been claimed to have liver protective activities. The present study aimed to evaluate in vitro antioxidant and in vivo hepatoprotective activities of root bark extracts of Croton macrostachyus (Euphorbiaceae).

Methods

Free radical scavenging activity of crude extract and solvent fractions of the plant was conducted using the DPPH assay method. Hepatoprotective activities of the crude extract and solvent fractions of the plant were carried out based on paracetamol-induced liver damage in mice. Serum biomarkers (AST, ALT, ALP, total bilirubin and total protein) were assessed to find out the effect. Histopathological examination was also carried out for all groups of mice to further confirm the findings.

Results

Antioxidant assay revealed that the crude extract, aqueous fraction and chloroform fraction of Croton macrostachyus exhibited free radical scavenging activity with IC₅₀ values of 128.6, 168.9, and 406 µg/mL, respectively. Pretreatment of the mice with the crude extract and solvent fractions of Croton macrostachyus significantly reduced ALP (p<0.001), ALT (p<0.001), and AST (p<0.001) levels at all the administered doses compared to the toxic group. The crude extract and chloroform fraction decreased total bilirubin level at doses of 200 mg/kg (P<0.05) and 400 mg/kg (P<0.001). Pretreatment of the mice with 400 mg/kg of the crude extract and aqueous fraction elevated total protein value compared to the paracetamol treated group (P<0.05). The hepatoprotective activities of the plant extracts were confirmed by histopathological studies.

Conclusion

From this study, it can be concluded that the crude extract and solvent fractions of Croton macrostachyus demonstrated antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities.

Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Activity of the Crude Extract and Solvent Fractions of Clutia abyssinica (Euphorbiaceae) Leaf Against CCl4-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice

Background

Liver is a vital organ that plays a major role in the elimination of xenobiotics from the body. Diseases that affect the liver become major health problems and challenge health-care professionals as well as the pharmaceutical industry. Since the conventional treatment of liver diseases is associated with a wide range of adverse effects, botanical agents are commonly used. Among these agents, Clutia abyssinica is the most widely used herb in Ethiopian traditional medicine.

Objective

To evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of the crude 80% methanol extract and solvent fractions of Clutia abyssinica leaves in mice.

Methods

The leaves of Clutia abyssinica were extracted by cold maceration using 80% methanol as a solvent, and the solvent fractions were obtained in liquid-liquid extraction with chloroform, n-butanol and distilled water. Male mice were treated with the vehicles (distilled water or 2% Tween 80), three different doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of the crude 80% methanol extract and three solvent fractions, the standard drug (silymarin 100 mg/kg), and the hepatotoxicant carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). Then, the levels of biomarkers of liver injury - such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) - and liver function such as total protein, albumin, and bilirubin were measured. Evaluation of the change in body weight and liver weight, histopathologic examination and in vitro antioxidant assay against CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity were also carried out.

Results

The 80% methanol extract decreased the absolute and relative weight of the liver of mice at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg (p<0.01 and p<0.001, respectively). It also suppressed the plasma levels of AST, ALT and ALP (p<0.001) in the aforementioned doses. Among fractions, the n-butanol fraction showed maximum hepatoprotective activity in its dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg (p<0.001, in all cases). Likewise, the chloroform fraction (400 mg/kg) reduced to a similar extent (p<0.001 in all cases). In stark contrast, the aqueous fraction failed to affect the levels of all biomarkers of hepatocyte injury. The crude methanol extract and n-butanol fraction were able to return the normal hepatic architecture of hepatocytes and scavenge free radicals in the 1,1-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay.

Conclusion

Clutia abyssinica is endowed with hepatoprotective activity, probably mediated via its antioxidant activity. Thus, Clutia abyssinica can be taken as one candidate for the development of hepatoprotective agents because of its good safety profile.

Herbal Therapy for the Treatment of Acetaminophen-Associated Liver Injury: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is the leading cause of drug-induced liver injury worldwide, and mitochondrial oxidative stress is considered the major event responsible for APAP-associated liver injury (ALI). Despite the identification of N-acetyl cysteine, a reactive oxygen species scavenger that is regarded as an effective clinical treatment, therapeutic effectiveness remains limited due to rapid disease progression and diagnosis at a late phase, which leads to the need to explore various therapeutic approaches. Since the early 1990s, a number of natural products and herbs have been found to have hepatoprotective effects against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in terms of acute liver failure prevention and therapeutic amelioration of ALI. In this review, we summarize the hepatoprotective effects and mechanisms of medicinal plants, including herbs and fruit extracts, along with future perspectives that may provide guidance to improve the current status of herbal therapy against ALI.

Ameliorative activity of Adansonia digitata fruit on high sugar/high fat diet-simulated Metabolic Syndrome model in male Wistar rats

Metabolic syndrome is a complex of metabolic disorders characterized by oxidative stress which compromises cell functions and entails multiple organs pathologies. We investigated the therapeutic and protective potential of Adansonia digitata fruit -a potent antioxidant- in high sugar/high fat diet-simulated metabolic syndrome in Wistar rats. 42 male rats (140-200 g) were randomly divided into 7 groups. G1 was kept on standard laboratory diet (SLD) for all 9 weeks (negative control). 5 groups were fed high Sugar/high fat diet for 6 weeks then switched to SLD for another 3 weeks + oral treatment as follows: G2+ no treatment (positive control), G3-G5 + 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg/day aqueous A. digitata fruit respectively, G6 + 10 mg/kg/day Simvastatin. G7 + HS/HFD + 400 mg/kg/day A. digitata fruit simultaneously and was terminated at W6. Our results showed that G2-G6 develops dyslipidemia, hyperglycaemia, weight gain, elevated hepatic biomarkers, elevated creatinine and urea plus pathological derangements in the heart, liver and kidney tissues compared to negative control at W6. 200 mg/kg/day A. digitata fruit significantly ameliorated the induced dyslipidemia (P ≤ 0.001), hyperglycaemia (P ≤ 0.001) with a significant reduction in the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (P ≤ 0.000) after 3 weeks treatment. The fruit normalized the elevated hepatic biomarkers as well as creatinine and urea. A dose dependent partial reduction in lesion intensity was observed in the hepatic tissue while the heart and kidney showed mostly reversed to normal histology. The inflammatory infiltration was eliminated. Relevant results were observed for the two higher doses. The simultaneous treatment showed significant lower levels in all biomarkers investigated compared to positive control which could be interpreted as protective activity. A reduction of 4-11% in whole body weight was achieved. CONCLUSION: MetS was successfully simulated with a HS/HFD formula in male Wistar rats. Treatment with aqueous A. digitata fruit showed anti-Metabolic Syndrome potential reflected by weight loss, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hypoglycaemic, renal, hepatic and cardio-protective activities.

Overdoses of Acetaminophen Disrupt the Thyroid-Liver Axis in Neonatal Rats

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to examine the impact of neonatal acetaminophen (APAP; paracetamol) administrations on the thyroid-liver axis in male Wistar rats.

METHODS

APAP (100 or 350mg/kg) was orally administered to neonates from Postnatal Day (PND) 20 to 40.

RESULTS

Both APAP doses elicited a substantial increase in serum TSH, albumin, AST, ALT, and ALP values, and a profound decrease in serum FT4 and FT3 values at PND 40 relative to those in the control group. Additionally, the hypothyroid state in both APAP-treated groups may increase the histopathological variations in the neonatal liver, such as destructive degeneration, fibrosis, fatty degeneration, fibroblast proliferation, haemorrhage, oedema, and vacuolar degeneration, at PND 40. Moreover, in the APAP groups, a marked depression was recorded in the t-SH and GSH levels and GPx and CAT activities at PND 40 in the neonatal liver compared to those in the control group. However, the levels of hepatic LPO, H2O2, and NO were increased in both APAP-treated groups at PND 40. All previous alterations were dose- dependent.

CONCLUSION

Neonatal APAP caused a hypothyroidism and disturbed hepatic cellular components by increasing prooxidant markers and decreasing antioxidant markers, causing hepatotoxicity. Thus, neonatal administrations of APAP may act as a neonatal thyroid-liver disruptor.

Antipyretic and hepatoprotective potential of Tinospora crispa and investigation of possible lead compounds through in silico approaches

This research describes an investigation of the antipyretic and hepatoprotective properties of both a crude organic extract and various subfractions of the ethnomedicinal plant Tinospora crispa, using appropriate animal models. In an attempt to identify potential lead hepatoprotective compounds, in silico experiments were utilized. Antipyretic activity was assessed via the Brewer's yeast-induced pyrexia method, while hepatoprotective effects were evaluated in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced animal model. A computer-aided prediction of activity spectra for substances (PASS) model was applied to a selection of documented phytoconstituents, with the aim of identifying those compounds with most promising hepatoprotective effects. Results were analyzed using Molinspiration software. Our results showed that both the methanol extract (METC) and various subfractions (pet ether, PEFTC; n-hexane, NHFTC; and chloroform, CFTC) significantly (p < .05) reduced pyrexia in a dose-dependent manner. In CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity studies, METC ameliorated elevated hepatic markers including serum alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly reduced, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were significantly increased. Among a selection of metabolites of T. crispa, genkwanin was found to be the most potent hepatoprotective constituent using PASS predictive models. These results demonstrate that both the methanolic extract of T. crispa and those fractions containing genkwanin may offer promise in reducing pyrexia and as a source of potential hepatoprotective agents.

Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Stachys pilifera. Benth on acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity in male rats

Background

Acetaminophen (APAP) at high doses causes adverse side effects such as hepatotoxicity. The aim of the current study was to investigate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Stachys pilifera. Benth (SP) on hepatotoxicity induced by APAP in male rats.

Methods

Adult male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups: control (C), APAP (2 g/kg), APAP + SP (500 mg/kg), and APAP + Silymarin (SM, 100 mg/kg) as positive control group. On the seventh day, the rats were sacrificed after taking blood samples. Then levels of biochemical parameters, oxidative stress markers and activity of antioxidant enzymes were measured.

Results

In the APAP group, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) enzymes activity was significantly increased and the level of protein carbonyl (PCO) was insignificantly increased as compared to control group. In addition, the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and total thiol in the APAP group was significantly decreased compared to the normal rats. Stachys pilifera. Benth extract administration significantly reduced the activity of AST and ALT enzymes and the level of PCO compared to the APAP group, while significantly elevated the activity of GPX enzyme.

Conclusion

Hydroalcoholic extract of SP diminishes hepatotoxicity induced by APAP by reducing the amount of liver function indicators (AST and ALT). Furthermore, the hydroalcoholic extract of SP is capable of reducing oxidative stress through inhibiting protein oxidation as well as boosting the activity of GPX enzyme. In this respect, the hepatoprotective impact induced by the SP extract may possibly be attributable to its reactive oxygen species scavenging and antioxidant properties.

Hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of watercress extract on acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Introduction

Acetaminophen (APAP) as an analgesic and antipyretic drug can result to liver damages while using more than 4 g/day. Therefore, APAP toxicity causes the liver to dysfunction. This study aims to investigate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of hydroalcoholic extract of watercress (WC) in APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Materials and methods

Randomly, twenty-four Wistar rats were divided into four groups of six each. Groups named as control, APAP, APAP + WC and APAP + S for group 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Group 1 received distilled water 1 ml/kg for 7 days. In group 2, 3, and 4, rats pretreated by receiving distilled water (1 ml/kg), WC extract (500 mg/kg), silymarin extract (mg/kg) for 7 days, respectively. Of note, to induce acute hepatotoxicity in groups 2, 3, and 4, rats posttreated by orally intoxicated with single dose of APAP (2 g/kg) on the sixth day. The animals were sacrificed on the seventh day. Alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), protein carbonyl (PCO), total thiol (T-SH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were measured in plasma. It should be noted that the chemical composition of WC extract was identified by GC-MS analysis.

Results

The results have shown that there was a significant increase in AST, ALT, FRAP and PCO content in APAP group in comparison to control. Also, there was a significant reduction in T-SH levels and GPx activity in APAP group compared to control. However, administration of WC extract and silymarin not only causes a significant decrease in AST activity, but they markedly increased T-SH content and GPx activity compared to APAP group. GC-MS analysis showed the major compositions were found to be benzenepropanenitrile (48.30 %), Phytol (10.10 %), α-cadinene (9.50%) and linolenic acid (8.0).

Conclusions

It is concluded that the WC extract reduces APAP-induced toxicity through its hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity in rats.

The Preventive Effects and the Mechanisms of Action of Navel Orange Peel Hydroethanolic Extract, Naringin, and Naringenin in N-Acetyl-p-aminophenol-Induced Liver Injury in Wistar Rats

N-Acetyl-p-aminophenol (APAP) or acetaminophen is the most common drug ingredient worldwide. It is found in more than 600 different over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Its long-term and overdose use is highly toxic and may result in liver injury. Thus, this study was designed to assess the preventive effects and to suggest the mechanisms of action of the navel orange peel hydroethanolic extract, naringin, and naringenin in APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats. APAP was administered to male Wistar rats at a dose level of 0.5 g/kg body weight (b.w.) by oral gavage every other day for 4 weeks. APAP-administered rats were treated with the navel orange peel hydroethanolic extract (50 mg/kg b.w.), naringin (20 mg/kg b.w.), and naringenin (20 mg/kg b.w.) by oral gavage every other day during the same period of APAP administration. The treatments of APAP-administered rats with the peel extract, naringin, and naringenin produced a significant decrease in the elevated serum AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, and GGT activities as well as total bilirubin and TNF-α levels while they induced a significant increase in the lowered serum albumin and IL-4 levels. The treatments also resulted in a significant decrease in the elevated liver lipid peroxidation and enhanced the liver GSH content and SOD, GST, and GPx activities as compared with APAP-administered control; the peel extract was the most potent in improving the liver LPO, GSH content, and GPx activity. In addition, the three treatments significantly downregulated the elevated hepatic proapoptotic mediators p53, Bax, and caspase-3 and significantly upregulated the suppressed antiapoptotic protein, Bcl-2, in APAP-administered rats. In association, the treatments markedly amended the APAP-induced liver histopathological deteriorations that include hepatocyte steatosis, cytoplasmic vacuolization, hydropic degeneration, and necrosis together with mononuclear leucocytic and fibroblastic inflammatory cells' infiltration. In conclusion, the navel orange peel hydroethanolic extract, naringin, and naringenin may exert their hepatopreventive effects in APAP-administered rats via enhancement of the antioxidant defense system and suppression of inflammation and apoptosis.

Phytochemical Profile, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Adansonia digitata L. (Baobab) from Mali, as a Source of Health-Promoting Compounds

Background: Adansonia digitata L. (Malvaceae), also known as baobab, is a tree attracting recent interest especially due to the high nutritional value of the fruit pulp. However, few studies are reported on the secondary metabolite content, showing high variability depending on the geographic region. Methods: In this study, the chemical profiles of Malian commercial baobab fruits and leaves, focused on phenolic content, were investigated by HPLC coupled with a photodiode array (PDA)/UV and an electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometer (MS) and gas chromatography (GC)/MS. In addition, the extracts of fruit pulps obtained from three different markets (Fruits 1, 2, and 3) were evaluated for their total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibition. Results: Baobab fruit pulps were found to be rich in procyanidins and flavonol glycosides, with tiliroside as the major constituent. The baobab leaves showed a similar profile respect to the fruits, but with more detected phenolics. All fruit pulp extracts exerted antioxidant activity (highest for Fruit 3) and higher α-glucosidase inhibition than acarbose used as standard. Conclusions: This study confirmed the variability of baobab with different origins and indicated Malian species baobab as a promising source of health-promoting substances.

Hepatoprotective effect of hydromethanolic leaf extract of Musanga cecropioides (Urticaceae) on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury and oxidative stress

Objective

Natural antioxidant products are gaining popularity as treatments for various pathological liver injuries. Musanga cecropioides (Urticaceae) leaf extract is used in ethnomedicine for the management of jaundice and other hepatic ailments in Ibibio, Nigeria. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of M. cecropioides hydromethanolic leaf (MCHL) extract against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Methods

Liver damage was induced by administering CCl₄ dissolved in liquid paraffin (2 mL/kg bw 1:1 intraperitoneally) after pretreatment with MCHL extract for 7 days. Thereafter, acute hepatotoxicity was evaluated in 36 Wistar rats divided into six groups (A–F) of six animals each. Group A served as the negative control; B received CCl₄ 1 mL/kg only; C–E received 70.7, 141.4, and 282.8 mg/kg MCHL extract, respectively; and F received silymarin 100 mg/kg daily for 7 days by oral gavage. After 48 h, the rats were sacrificed, and samples obtained from them were assayed for histological and biochemical biomarkers of hepatotoxicity.

Results

The MCHL extracts significantly (p < 0.001–0.05) reduced the increase in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), conjugated bilirubin (CBIL), and total bilirubin (TBIL) levels induced by CCl₄ intoxication. There was no significant alteration in haematological indices or weight following administration of the MCHL extracts. Histopathological examinations revealed mitotic bodies in the 141.4 mg/kg MCHL extract-treated rats, an indication of tissue repair processes.

Conclusion

The MCHL extract has a dose-specific hepatoprotective effect; hence, the utilisation of this extract for the management of hepatitis requires caution.

Mechanisms of acetaminophen-induced liver injury and its implications for therapeutic interventions

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is the leading cause of drug-induced acute liver failure in many developed countries. Mitochondrial oxidative stress is considered to be the predominant cellular event in APAP-induced liver injury. Accordingly, N-acetyl cysteine, a known scavenger of reactive oxygen species (ROS), is recommended as an effective clinical antidote against APAP-induced acute liver injury (AILI) when it is given at an early phase; however, the narrow therapeutic window limits its use. Hence, the development of novel therapeutic approaches that can offer broadly protective effects against AILI is clearly needed. To this end, it is necessary to better understand the mechanisms of APAP hepatotoxicity. Up to now, in addition to mitochondrial oxidative stress, many other cellular processes, including phase I/phase II metabolism, endoplasmic reticulum stress, autophagy, sterile inflammation, microcirculatory dysfunction, and liver regeneration, have been identified to be involved in the pathogenesis of AILI, providing new targets for developing more effective therapeutic interventions against APAP-induced liver injury. In this review, we summarize intracellular and extracellular events involved in APAP hepatotoxicity, along with emphatic discussions on the possible therapeutic approaches targeting these different cellular events.