Sodium Valproate-Induced Hepatic Dysfunction in Albino Rats and Protective Role of n-Butanol Extract of Centaurea sphaerocephala L.

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the protective effect of n-butanol extract of Centaurea sphaerocephala (C.sphaerocephala) and Vitamin E against sodium valproate-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in male rats. Male rats were divided into eight equal groups treated with plant extract (50mg/kg, 100mg /kg), Vit. E (100mg/kg) and VPA (300mg/kg). At the end of the experiment, animal were scarified and samples (blood and liver’s tissue) were removed isolated for biochemical and histological study. VPA-treated rats showed hepatic injury characterized by a significant increase in biochemical parameters (serum transaminase, cholesterol and triglycerides). Also, VPA induced oxidative stress exhibited a significant increase in MDA level and significant decrease in GSH levels, CAT and GPx activities. These effects were accompanied by histopathological changes in liver. While the pretreatment by n-butanol extract of C. sphaerocephala reversed the alteration induced by VPA and reduced its toxic effects. The results showed a significant decrease in serum markers and liver’s lipid peroxidation whereas GSH level and the activities of GPx, CAT enzymes were significantly increased. Histopathological observations correlated with the biochemical parameters. VPA-induced hepatotoxicity involved free radical production, the antioxidant and free radical scavenging property of Centaurea sphaerocephala would have provided the protection against hepatic damage.