Protective effect of Nectaroscordum tripedale extract and its bioactive component tetramethylpyrazine against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Abstract

Hepatoxicity is a common complication of acetaminophen. This study was to evaluate the effects of Nectaroscordum tripedale extract (NTE) and its bioactive component tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) on acetaminophen-induced liver failure. The presence of TMP in NTE was determined by HPLC. The hepatoprotective effect of NTE and TMP (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively) was evaluated by the assay of liver function parameters; total bilirubin, alanine aminotransaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase activities (ALP) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Results revealed that TMP was 1.24 mg/g in NTE. LD50 of the NTE and TMP was 3800 mg/kg and 2700 mg/kg, respectively. NTE and TMP (100 and 200 mg/kg) decreased the ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin but the SOD increased in a dose-dependent manner in acetaminophen-induced liver failure rats. In conclusion, NTE and its fraction TMP may be a protecting liver candidate against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity.