Antioxidant effects of gum arabic on gentamycin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Abstract

Background Gum arabic (GA) is an exudate obtained from Acacia senegal and A. seyal, and it contains a large amount of nonviscous soluble fiber. Experimental studies revealed its strong antioxidant properties. Gentamycin-induced hepatotoxicity has been reported in experimental animals. Gentamycin induces hepatoxicity mainly by generating free radicals and enhancing oxidative stress. Aim This study aimed to investigate the involvement of oxidative stress and the alteration of the oxidant–antioxidant balance in gentamycin-induced hepatotoxicity. In addition, this study explored the possible protection that can be afforded by GA, given its antioxidant potential. Materials and methods Forty adult male Albino rats’ weighing was used in this study. The animals were randomly divided into four groups. Group I served as control, which received normal mouse diet. Group II orally received GA through a gastric feeding tube for 8 days. Group III received a daily intraperitoneal injection of gentamycin. Group IV received gentamycin intraperitoneally plus orally for 8 days. Results The results of this study revealed significant elevation of serum alanine transaminase, hepatic malondialdehyde level, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase activities and reduction of hepatic Reduced Glutathione (GSH) and glutathione reductase activities in gentamycin-treated animals. Administration of GA with gentamycin intake restored the altered parameters to their normal values, whereas hepatic glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase activities were enhanced further. Conclusion This study demonstrated the antioxidant effect of GA and its protective role against gentamycin-induced hepatocyte injury. More studies are warranted to further reveal the underlying mechanisms of the antioxidant properties of GA, especially at the structural and molecular levels.