The possible protective effect of quercetin on methotrexate induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats: biochemical , histological and immunohistochemical study

Abstract

Background:Methotrexate(Mtx) is an antineoplastic and immunosuppressive drug. That may cause hepatotoxicity, whereas quarcetin has anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties.Aim of the work: This study aimed to investigate the possible protective and therapeutic effects of quercetin against methotrexate (Mtx)-induced hepatotoxicity with biochemical and histopathological studies in ratsMaterials and methods: twenty six Wister albino rats were equally divided into four experimental groups: Control (group I), Mtx group (group II) rats received (single dose of Mtx 20 mg/kg i.p.). QCT protective group (group III) rats pre-treated with QCT (20 mg/kg orally daily for 7 days then Mtx administration. QCT therapeutic group (group IV) rats cotreated with Mtx(20 mg/kg for i.p, single dose)then QCT were given as before .Following treatment, the animals were sacrificed, and liver tissue samples were histopathologically evaluated using H&E, Masson's, PCNA staining, and serum transaminases were measured and statistically compared across all groupsResults:Group II (Mtx group) demonstrated hydrobic degeneration of hepatocytes, congestion of hepatic sinusoids ,central veins and portal veins .An apparent increase in collagenous fibers distribution around the central vein and portal tract was detected .In groups III (protected QCT), and group IV (QCT therapeutic groups), showed less histological injury compared to Mtx group as regards liver sections ,but pretreatment with QCT in group III was more effective than in group IV except for mild dilation of sinusoids Conclusion: Methotrexate has a deleterious effect on the liver. Quaricetin may be a potential adjuvant drug to reduce the hepatic side effects observed during Mtx therapy for various clinical conditions.