Document Type : Research article
Authors
1
Department of Basic Science/College of Dentistry /Al_Iraqia University /Baghdad- Iraq
2
Department of Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology / College of Veterinary Medicine / University of Mosul/ Mosul _Iraq
Abstract
Poria cocos (P.cocos) has long been utilized in alternative medicine due to various desired effects on body health. This study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of ethanol extract of P.cocos (EEPC) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver injury in rats. A total of 40 male rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=10). 1) The control group administered olive oil (0.5 ml/kg/day, orally), 2) the CCl4-induced liver damage rats received CCl4 dissolved in olive oil (0.5 ml/kg orally), twice weekly for one month, 3) the EEPC-treated group (250 mg/kg/day, orally) for one month and 4) CCl4 + EEPC-treated group co-administered CCl4 (0.5 ml/kg) + EEPC (250 mg/kg/day) for one month. The biochemical analysis revealed that CCl4 exposure significantly elevated liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) activities. Furthermore, an increase in the inflammatory markers, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin -6 (IL-6) and heat shock protein70 (Hsp70) and the lipid profile, along with the oxidative stress (MDA), as well. Moreover, antioxidants such as glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase (CAT) were depleted in tissues. Treatment with EEPC resulted in a significant correction of the disrupted values caused by CCl4 exposure. A significant reduction was detected in liver enzyme activity (ALT, AST, GGT), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL 6, Hsp70), lipid peroxidation (MDA) and blood lipids, total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG). In addition, tissue antioxidants (GSH, SOD, CAT) were restored to the normal levels. In conclusion, ethanol extract of P. cocos effectively mitigates CCl4-induced liver injury in rats by adjusting liver enzymes, suppressing inflammation and enhancing antioxidant capacity. These highlight the potential of P. cocos as a promising natural therapeutic for acute liver diseases and related consequences.
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