IDDF2019-ABS-0234 Role of momordica charantia fruit extract against hepatic fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats

Abstract

Background Momordica charantia Linn. (Karela) commonly known as Bitter melon or Bitter gourd is a tropical and subtropical climber of the family Cucurbitaceae. Its fruit is also used for the treatment of diabetes and related conditions amongst the indigenous populations of Asia, South America, India and East Africa. The aim of the present study was to investigate the Momordica charantia fruit (MCF) extract as hepatoprotective agent verse hepatic damages caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Methods Male Wistar albino rats were divided into two equal groups (n=8) and treated as follows: Group 1, kept as control group and orally given saline; Group 2, kept as control positive and were administered daily oral doses of MCF extract (150 mg/kg) daily for 21 days and subsequently injected i.p. with CCl4 (50% v/v in olive oil; 1 ml/kg) on the 22nd day. CCl4-induced damages were assessed through liver function markers viz.; alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase. Changes in lipid profile were checked by measuring serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoproteins and low-density lipoproteins. Antioxidant status was checked by the activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidise ), malondialdehyde (MDA)content. The histopathological changes were observed with Masson staining. Results Administration CCl4 induced an elevation of serum amino- and glutamyl transferases activities and an increased peroxidation, as well as a decrease of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidise activities in the liver. Administration of CCl4 in rats caused a significant increase in liver function and lipid profile indicating hepatic damages which were restored by co-administration of MCF extract. Cellular and DNA damages in hepatic tissues were caused by CCl4 which shown clear hepatic fibrosis in addition to disturbing antioxidant enzyme level. Co-treatment with MCF extract regulated these markers of oxidative dysfunctions. MCF extracts enhance hepatic glutathione and may contribute to the antioxidant defense of the liver. Conclusions It may be concluded that MCF extracts have the ability to reverse CCl4 induced hepatic damages. Momordica charantia fruit has been used to treat alcoholic liver disease, acute and chronic viral hepatitis and toxin-induced liver diseases.