The Effect of Melon Seed Extract on the Transcription of NF-κB and Myeloperoxidase in the Liver Tissue of Mice Poisoned with Ethylene Glycol

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The liver is exposed to poisoning caused by various chemical compounds. Considering the antioxidant effects found in melon seeds and the role of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and Myeloperoxidase (MPO) in inflammation caused by oxidative stress, the present study aims to assess the effect of hydroethanolic extract of melon seeds on the transcriptional of NF-κB encoding genes and the MPO gene expression in rats with ethylene glycol-induced toxicity. Methods: Thirty male rats were randomly divided into five groups of healthy control, poisoned control (0.75% ethylene glycol), and three melon extract-treated poisoned groups (0.75% ethylene glycol and 150, 300, or 600 mg/kg body weight of melon extract) and were treated for 38 days. Then, the liver tissue of the rats was removed to evaluate the transcription of NF-κB encoding genes and the MPO level by real-time PCR method. Results: The transcription level of NF-κB encoding genes and the MPO level in the poisoned control group rats significantly increased compared to the healthy group. Treatment with hydroethanolic extract of melon seeds at concentrations of 300 and 600 mg/kg body weight caused a significant decrease in the transcription of NF-κB encoding genes. Treatment with hydroethanolic extracts at concentrations of 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg body weight caused a significant decrease in the MPO level compared to the poisoned control group. Conclusion: The decrease in MPO and NF-κB encoding genes after administration of hydroethanolic extract of melon seeds indicates the therapeutic effect of this extract on liver damage.