The role of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the Nandrolone-Decanoate-induced liver fibrosis

Abstract

To determine the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and its relationship with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) during the process of developing liver fibrosis induced by Nandrolone Decanoate, 36 adult male Wistar rats are divided into 3 groups. Except for the control group, the other 2 experimental groups are injected with nandrolone decanoate (3.5 mg/kg/5 times/IM/week) for 4 weeks. After 4 weeks of injection, one experimental group (A) is decapitated. Samples from livers and plasma are obtained to conduct histopathological section, TNF-alpha ELISA, and EPR for ROS level. Then along with the same dosage of nandrolone decanoate, raxofelast (15mg/kg/day) is administrated orally to the experimental group (B) for another 4 weeks. The result of the histopathology section, ELISA, and EPR tests of group A and group B were compared. The degree of liver fibrosis, reactive oxygen species amount, and TNF-alpha level before and after the administration of antioxidants indicate the role of ROS in the development of TNF-alpha-mediated liver fibrosis. Another purpose of this experiment is to discuss the potential of antioxidants in the treatment of steroid-induced liver fibrosis.