Liver Marker Enzymes Research Articles

Hepatoprotective effects of ethanolic extract of Corallocarpus epigaeus roots on nitrobenzene-induced liver injury in Wistar rats

ABSTRACT This study examined the potential of Corallocarpus epigaeus ethanolic root extract to combat free radicals using DPPH, FRAP, hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide scavenging assays. Rats were initially exposed to a single oral dose of nitrobenzene (50 mg kg−1 body weight), followed by a 15-d oral regimen of the ethanolic root extract of C. epigaeus at 200 mg kg−1 body weight. The assessment of serum liver marker enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP), lipid peroxidation levels, antioxidant enzyme activities, and histopathological examinations of liver tissues were carried out. The C. epigaeus ethanolic root extract demonstrated antioxidant properties and contained flavonoids, tannins, carotenoids, lycopene, and phenolic compounds. In Nitrobenzene-induced rats, elevated serum markers and increased liver lipid peroxidation were observed that were normalized by the extract. It also increased antioxidant enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. Histopathological analysis confirmed the hepatoprotective effects of the extract.

Impact of Fresh Khat Extract on Proinflammatory Cytokines and Hepatic and Renal Responses.

BACKGROUND This study examined the effects of khat extract on the proinflammatory cytokines, liver, and kidneys of rats. Unlike previous research that focused on broad immune markers and general effects, this study investigated specific proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and TNF-alpha) and considered gender differences in the immune response. Fresh khat plants and nontoxic doses were used to obtain clear observations relevant to human health. MATERIAL AND METHODS Extracts were prepared from young shoots of khat plants and fresh leaves. 150-gram male and female rats were randomly divided into 8 groups (5 rats per group). Six groups received the extract orally for 8 weeks at doses of 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg/day. Blood samples were collected after 56 days and assayed for cytokines using ELISA, while liver enzymes and kidney markers were assayed using kinetics and colorimetric methods. RESULTS Khat extract increased the levels of most cytokines, with higher doses causing greater increase. This effect was consistent across sexes for some cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-2), but not others (IL-4, IL-6, TNF-alpha), where sex played a role at specific doses. Various doses of the extract influenced glucose levels in both male and female rats. In addition, liver enzyme markers showed some variations. CONCLUSIONS This study, with its intriguing findings, illuminates the complex effects of khat on various systems. Variations in AST and ALT levels in the liver support earlier hepatotoxicity research and suggest possible khat-induced damage. This study revealed consistently increased levels of all cytokines as the dose of khat extract increased.

Assessment of Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Effects of Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) Doty ex Silva Against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Injury in Rats

Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) Doty ex Silva, commonly known as red algae, holds economic significance as a primary source of κ-carrageenan, which exhibits promising medicinal and therapeutic properties. This study aims to assess the antioxidant potential as well as hepatoprotective activity of the ethanolic extract of K. alvarezii (EEKA). The assays utilised to determine the antioxidant properties of EEKA were total phenolic content (TPC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging. In addition, the ability of EEKA to ameliorate experimentally induced liver injury in Sprague-Dawley rats caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) was evaluated. The biochemical assays involved measuring liver marker enzymes (AST and ALT) in serum as well as determining the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPO) via malondialdehyde, catalase (CAT), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in liver homogenates. The TPC and DPPH radical scavenging activity of EEKA demonstrated relatively low antioxidant properties compared to standard references. However, CCl4-induced groups exhibited significantly increased levels of AST and ALT, along with depletion of antioxidant status (GSH, CAT, and GST) indicated by LPO. Pretreatment with EEKA resulted in slightly decreased liver marker enzyme activity and LPO, coupled with an increase in antioxidant status. These findings suggest that EEKA contains active principles capable of counteracting the hepatotoxic effects induced by CCl4.

Altered Liver Enzyme Markers in Patients with Asymptomatic, and Mild Omicron Infection: A Retrospective Study.

The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant has posed a significant global public health challenge. Elucidating the laboratory profiles of individuals infected with this variant is crucial for assessing organ damage. This study aimed to investigate the variations in liver function tests and their correlation with demographic characteristics and inflammatory markers in patients with early Omicron variant infections. A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 1133 mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 cases at Tianjin First Central Hospital. Data on age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and serum markers were collected and analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software, version 24.0. Abnormal liver function parameters, including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and total bilirubin (TBIL), were observed in 314 (27.71%) patients. "Hepatocellular type" was identified in 56 (4.94%) patients, "cholestatic type" in 185 (16.33%) patients, and "mixed type" in 73 (6.44%) patients. In the mixed group, we observed a pronounced elevation in the levels of ALT, AST, and GGT. Moreover, the hepatocellular group exhibited a statistically significant increase in AST and ALT concentrations relative to both the normal and cholestatic groups. Notably, the cholestatic group demonstrated a substantial increment in ALP levels. Males had a significantly higher prevalence of "abnormal liver enzyme markers" compared to females. Patients with "abnormal liver enzyme markers" exhibited significantly decreased immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels and elevated levels of inflammatory markers, including procalcitonin (PCT), interleukin-6 (IL6), as well as C-reactive protein (CRP) compared to normal group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender and PCT levels were significantly associated with the risk of abnormal liver enzyme markers. Patients in hepatocellular group were likely accompanied with high CRP levels, whereas those in the cholestatic type were associated with high IL6 levels. Early Omicron infection might cause liver stress response. Elevated liver enzyme marker levels were correlated with age, gender, inflammatory factors, and IgG.

Protective Effects of Aqueous-Ethanol Leaf Extract of Justicia Carnea Lindl. and Silymarin on Thioacetamide-Induced Hepatorenal Injury in Rats

Background and Purpose: Liver and kidney injuries pose significant global health risks and are often linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. Thioacetamide (TAA) is a hepatorenal toxin widely used in experimental models. Justicia carnea, has been used traditionally for treating liver disorders and silymarin, a flavonoid complex derived from Silybum marianum, is renowned for its hepatoprotective effects. This study investigated the potential protective effects of aqueous-ethanol leaf extract of J. carnea and silymarin on TAA-induced hepatorenal injury in rats.Methods: Six groups (n=5) of male Wistar rats were used in the experiments. Group A (control) received 10 mL/kg of distilled water; group B was administered TAA at a dosage of 300 mg/kg; group C received TAA (300 mg/kg) along with 50 mg/kg of silymarin; groups D, E, and F were administered 300 mg/kg of TAA and subsequently treated with 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg of the extract, respectively. TAA was administered intraperitoneally while silymarin and the extract were administered orally. Treatment was daily for 14 days after which sera and livers from the rats were assayed for enzymes, albumin, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, electrolytes, and antioxidants.Results: Exposure to TAA significantly elevated liver enzyme markers: alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin but reduced albumin levels. TAA exposure also led to increased urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium, and chloride levels and caused a significant decrease in antioxidant enzymes: catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) but increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in liver homogenates. However, treatment with silymarin and doses of extract significantly ameliorated hepatorenal function parameters and improved the antioxidant status of the liver in the experimental animals.Conclusion: These findings suggest that both silymarin and J. carnea aqueous-ethanol extract possess hepatoprotective and renoprotective properties, highlighting their potential as therapeutic agents in the management of hepatorenal injuries.

Therapeutic Potential of Rosa davurica Pall. Root Extract as an Antidiabetic Agent: A Comprehensive Analysis from Molecular Mechanisms to In Vivo Efficacy.

Rosa davurica Pall. is widely used in traditional oriental herbal therapy, but its components and molecular mechanisms of action remain unclear. This study investigates the antidiabetic potential of Rosa davurica Pall. root extract (RDR) and elucidates its underlying molecular mechanisms with in vitro and in vivo models. Data from the current study show that RDR exhibits strong antioxidant activity and glucose homeostasis regulatory effects. It significantly impacts glucose homeostasis in C2C12 skeletal muscle cells by inhibiting α-glucosidase activity. Further molecular mechanistic studies revealed that RDR promoted glucose uptake by phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), but not Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase)/Akt in C2C12 skeletal muscle cells. These actions increased the expression and translocation of glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) to the plasma membrane. In addition, RDR treatment in the STZ-induced diabetic rats remarkably improved the low body weight, polydipsia, polyphagia, hyperglycemia, and islet architecture and increased the insulin/glucose ratio. The liver (ALT and AST) and kidney marker enzyme (BUN and creatinine) levels were restored by RDR treatment as well. Phytochemical analysis identified eight major constituents in RDR, crucial for its antioxidant and antidiabetic activity. Through the molecular docking of representative glucose transporter GLUT4 with these compounds, it was confirmed that the components of RDR had a significantly high binding score in terms of structural binding. These findings from the current study highlight the antidiabetic effects of RDR. Collectively, our data suggest that RDR might be a potential pharmaceutical natural product for diabetic patients.

Impact of silymarin-supplemented cookies on liver enzyme and inflammatory markers in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing public health concern characterized by fat accumulation and severe disorders like nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which are influenced by obesity, inflammatory processes, and metabolic pathways. This research investigates the potential of silymarin-supplemented cookies in managing NAFLD by evaluating their impact on liver enzyme activity, inflammatory markers, and lipid profiles. A clinical trial in Lahore, Pakistan, involved 64 NAFLD patients. Participants were divided into placebo and three treatment groups, with the latter receiving silymarin-supplemented cookies for 3 months. The study assessed liver enzyme levels and inflammatory markers, at baseline and after the intervention, utilizing statistical analyses to evaluate differences. The lipid profile and renal function test (RFT) were also measured at baseline and after 3 months in each group for safety assessment. After 3 months, the treatment groups indicated more significant decreases in liver enzymes compared to the placebo group (p ≤ .05). Treatment 3 showed significant reductions in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (64.39-49.38 U/L) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (61.53-45.38 U/L). Treatment 3 also showed improvements in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels and the AST/ALT ratio. Additionally, the treatment group demonstrated a significant reduction in inflammatory markers. Treatment 3 showed a significant decrease in C-reactive protein (CRP) (6.32-3.39 mg/L) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (38.72-23.86 mm/h), indicating that individuals with NAFLD may benefit from the intervention's potential benefits in lowering inflammation. The study revealed that an intervention significantly improved the inflammatory markers, liver enzymes, and lipid profiles of NAFLD participants, suggesting potential benefits for liver health.

Effects of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) powder on liver enzymes, lipid profiles and carcass traits of finisher broiler chickens

Thirty-two (32) three-week old Anak Acre unsexed broiler chicks were used to evaluate the effects of bitter leaf powder (BLP) on liver enzymes, lipid profile and carcass characteristics. The birds were acclimatized for one week and thereafter allocated to 4 treatments: T1 (Control), T2 (2.5g BLP/bird), T3 (5g BLP/bird), and T4 (7.5g BLP/bird) in a completely randomized design and each treatment was replicated twice, with each replicate containing 4 birds. The birds received BLP through drinking water (2ml drench) for 4 weeks. At the end of the treatment, data obtained from serum parameters and carcass traits were subjected to analysis of variance and significance was determined at P ≤ 0.05. Results showed that BLP supplements had no significant effect (P>0.05) on liver enzyme markers and lipid profiles. The group treated with BLP at 2.5 g/bird had lowest ALP and ALT liver enzymes and lowest lipid and highest good cholesterol (HDL). The carcass characteristics showed that T3 differed (P<0.05) from other groups in live, slaughter, plucked, eviscerated and dressed weights and body parts including the thigh, breast, neck and the shank weights. The drumstick, back and the gizzard weights did not differ significantly (P>0.05) across the groups. The control group outperformed (P <0.05) other groups in intestinal and liver weights whereas the abdominal fat was numerically (P>0.05) highest in the group treated with 2.5 g/bird. It can therefore be concluded that liver enzyme markers and lipid profile of broiler chickens were at their best in broilers treated with BLP at 2.5 g/bird while the carcass characteristics showed superiority in broilers treated with BLP at 5 g/bird.

Mentha spicata assisted Ag–CuO nanocomposite enables anti-diabetic and vitamin-C sensing activities

Diabetes mellitus (DM), a multifactorial chronic health condition, affects a sizable portion of the global population, and more people are expected to contract it in the future, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Diabetes mellitus can be treated with conventional drugs, but most of the medications have a variety of side effects. The use of nanocomposites (NCs) to treat diabetes has been prioritized in this scenario. In this study, Ag–CuO NCs were synthesized using a green method using Mentha spicata leaf extract and their physicochemical properties were investigated with a variety of analytical techniques. According to an extensive in vivo and in vitro analysis of the biological activities of as-synthesized Ag–CuO NCs, Ag–CuO NCs possess effective antibacterial, anti-diabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemic characteristics. When Ag–CuO NCs are administered to STZ-induced animals in a concentration-based manner, the blood levels of inflammatory and liver marker enzymes are reduced and antioxidant enzyme levels are increased. Besides, Ag–CuO NCs exhibit excellent sensing activity with a limit of detection of 86 nM against Vitamin-C. This study reveals that Ag–CuO NCs derived from Mentha spicata may, therefore, prove to be a very successful anti-diabetic and biosensor candidate in the future.

Altering plasma lipids and liver enzyme activities via hippocampal injections of hen Lysozyme amyloid aggregates in an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model: Insights into the therapeutic role of Bis (Indolyl) phenylmethane

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a prevalent form of dementia in the elderly. There is currently no effective treatment available for this disease. Diagnosis of AD typically relies on clinical manifestations and specific biomarkers. The present study investigated the impact of inducing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in mice through the injection of lysozyme amyloids formed in the presence or absence of Bis (Indolyl) phenylmethane (BIPM) on alterations in plasma lipid profiles and liver enzyme activities. 24 adult Wistar rats were divided into control, Scopolamine, Lysozyme, BIPM groups and the blood samples were obtained from the groups for biochemical analysis. The findings of the study revealed significant changes in the plasma lipid profiles and liver enzyme markers of the Lysozyme group compared to the control group. The Lysozyme group exhibited elevated triglycerides (n = 6, P < 0.02) and LDL levels (n = 6, P < 0.02), reduced HDL (n = 6, P < 0.05) and cholesterol levels (n = 6, P < 0.02), and altered serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) level (n = 6, P < 0.05) compared to controls. While the level of serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) did not change significantly compared to the control. BIPM groups showed no significant changes in lipid or enzyme levels compared to controls. Overall, our research has shown that BIPM has the ability to modify the structure of HEWL aggregates, thereby improving the detrimental effects associated with AD caused by these aggregates. Analyzing lipid profiles and liver enzyme markers presents a promising avenue for targeted therapeutic approaches. These alterations observed in the plasma may potentially serve as candidate biomarkers for diagnosing this disease.

Supplementation of Salvia hispanica L. seed ameliorated liver function enzymes, hyperlipidemia, and oxidative stress in high fat diet fed Swiss albino mice

BackgroundSalvia hispanica L. (Chia) seed improves liver marker enzymes, lipid profile and antioxidant enzyme activity. PurposeThe aim of the research work was to evaluate the hepatic and antioxidant enzymes activity of chia seed supplementation in high fat diet fed mice. MethodsLiver marker enzymes, lipid profile, oxidative stress, antioxidant enzyme activity, and histology were evaluated for chia seed supplementation in high fat diet fed mice. Here, ALT, AST, and ALP were done for liver marker enzymes test. Cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL were measured for lipid profiles. MDA, NO, AOPP, and MPO were done for oxidative stress test. Catalase and SOD were performed for measuring antioxidant enzyme activity. Hematoxylin and eosin and Prussian blue staining were done for histology purposes. ResultsIn high fat diet fed mice liver marker enzymes were significantly reduced by supplementation of chia seed. Lipid profiles like cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL concentration were declined and HDL concentration was increased significantly by chia seed supplementation in high fat diet fed mice. High fat diet increased oxidative stress markers such as MDA, NO, AOPP, and MPO which was significantly decreased by the supplementation of chia seed. Antioxidant enzyme activity and histology were also improved by the supplementation of chia seed. ConclusionAccording to this study, chia seed supplementation can reduce liver fibrosis, hyperlipidemia, oxidative stress, and improve antioxidant enzyme activity in mice fed a high-fat diet.

Thymoquinone protects thioacetamide-induced chronic liver injury by inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad3 axis in rats.

Chronic liver injury due to various etiological factors results in excess secretion and accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, leading to scarring of liver tissue and ultimately to hepatic fibrosis. If left untreated, fibrosis might progress to cirrhosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. Thymoquinone (TQ), an active compound of Nigella sativa, has been reported to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. Therefore, the effect of TQ against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis was assessed in rats. Fibrosis was induced with intraperitoneal administration of TAA (250 mg/kg b.w.) twice a week for 5 weeks. TQ (20 mg/kg b.w.) and silymarin (50 mg/kg b.w.) were orally administered daily for 5 weeks separately in TAA administered groups. Liver dysfunction was reported by elevated liver enzymes, increased oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis upon TAA administration. Our study demonstrated that TQ inhibited the elevation of liver marker enzymes in serum. TQ administration significantly increased antioxidant markers, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase in the liver tissue of rats. Further, TQ significantly attenuated liver fibrosis, as illustrated by the downregulation of TAA-induced interleukin-β, tumour necrosis factor-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase and fibrosis markers like transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), α-smooth muscle actin, collagen-1, Smad3 and 7. Therefore, these findings suggest that TQ has a promising hepatoprotective property, as indicated by its potential to effectively suppress TAA-induced liver fibrosis in rats by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation via TGF-β/Smad signaling.

Boldine protects against carbon tetrachloride-induced chronic liver injury by regulating NF-κB signaling pathway.

Sustained liver injuries predominantly promote oxidative stress and inflammation that lead to the progression of chronic liver disease (CLD), including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Boldine, an alkaloid isolated from Peumus boldus, has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Currently, there is no definitive treatment option available for CLD. Therefore, we investigated the hepatoprotective effect of boldine against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4 )-induced chronic liver injury in rats. CCl4 (2 mL/kg., b.w., i.p.) was administered twice weekly for 5 weeks to induce chronic liver injury in rats. Separate groups of rats were given boldine (20 mg/kg b.w., and 40 mg/kg b.w.) and silymarin (100 mg/kg b.w.) orally, daily. Serum transaminases, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant levels were measured, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (cox-2), interleukin-1 β (IL-1β), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) gene and protein expressions were evaluated. CCl4 administration increased liver marker enzymes of hepatotoxicity in serum and oxidative stress markers, inflammatory genes and α-smooth muscle actin expression in liver tissue. Boldine concurrent treatment suppressed CCl4 -induced elevation of transaminase levels in serum, restored enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants, and downregulated NF-κB, TNF-α, Cox-2 and IL-1β expressions, thereby suppressing hepatic inflammation. Boldine administration also repressed α-SMA expression. The results of this study demonstrate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties of boldine, and it can be a potential therapeutic candidate in the treatment of CLD.

Antidiabetic Properties of Stingless Bee Pollen in High-Fat Diet FED-Low Dose STZ Induced Experimental T2DM Rats

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multisystem metabolic disease because of either insulin insufficiency or ineffectiveness. Individuals with DM continuously measure their blood glucose levels during fasting and after eating in order to manage their condition effectively. glucose levels during fasting and after eating in order to manage their condition effectively. Despite the availability of several drugs, there is no treatment proven to be perfect due to adverse side impacts as well as reduced long-term efficacy. Moreover, the excessive formation of free radicals has been linked to diabetes progression, development, as well as complications. As a result, there is a need to explore new medicines without side effects, preferably derived from natural products. Therefore, this study analyzes the antidiabetic properties of stingless bee pollen scientifically. This natural product was fed a high-fat diet and low streptozotocin doses in experimental rats with T2DM. An oral glucose tolerance test aimed investigate stingless bee pollen effect on glucose homeostasis. An insulin toleration test was executed to obtain stingless pollen influence on insulin sensitivity. This study measures Insulin resistance with HOMA-IR. Oral administration of stingless bee pollen for 30 days raised glucose homeostasis in T2DM rats, as shown by the OGTT, ITT, and HOMA-IR results. In addition, this treatment significantly improved changes in glycated hemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, protein, uric acid, urea, as well as creatinine levels. The activity changes of ALP, AST, and ALT liver enzyme markers in T2DM rats were nearly normalized after given with stingless bee pollen. The activity of carbohydrate metabolism enzymes includes pyruvate kinase, glucokinase, glucose-6-phosphatase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase in T2DM rats’ liver tissue. This change was significantly restored to near-normal levels after stingless bee pollen treatment.&#x0D; Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, High Fat Diet, Metformin, Stingless Bee Pollen

Hepatoprotective efficacy of Lagenaria siceraria seeds oil against experimentally carbon tetrachloride-induced toxicity.

The liver is crucial for maintaining normal metabolism in the body. Various substances, such as toxic chemicals, drugs, and alcohol, can damage hepatocyte cells, leading to metabolic imbalances. The experiment aimed to determine the efficacy of Lagenaria siceraria seed oil (LSS) as a hepatoprotective agent against acute hepatotoxicity triggered by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). A total of 20 rats were randomly separated into four groups. The control group: rats received 2 ml of distilled water orally, followed by 1.25 ml of olive oil intraperitoneally (i.p.) after 30 minutes. CCL4 group: rats were given a single intraperitoneal dose of 1.25 ml/kg b.w. of CCl4 in a 1:1 mixture with olive oil. Silymarin group: received 100 mg of silymarin per kg of b.w. diluted in 2 ml of distilled water orally, followed by CCl4 treatment after 30 minutes. LSS oil group: received LSS oil at 3g/kg b.w. orally, followed by CCl4 treatment after 30 minutes. Blood samples were collected to assess liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP), proteins and bilirubin fractions, and redox status (catalase, reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA)) were assessed in hepatic tissues. Changes in liver histopathological examination were also evaluated. In CCl4-treated rats, there was a significant increase in serum liver marker enzyme activity (ALP, AST, and ALT) along with a significant elevation (p < 0.05) in total bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, and direct bilirubin compared to the control rats. However, all these parameters decreased in the CCl4+ Silymarin and CCl4+LSS groups compared to CCl4-treated rats. There was a significant decline in total protein level and serum albumin in all experimental groups compared to the control, while globulin levels significantly increased in all experimental groups. There was a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the level of GSH and catalase, with an increase in MDA level in CCl4 rats compared to other rats. Histopathological investigation of the LSS-treated group showed a hepatoprotective effect against CCl4. The study revealed that LSS oil has antioxidant activity against CCl4-induced toxicity.

Sesamin's Therapeutic Actions on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Hepatotoxicity, Molecular Mechanisms, and Histopathological Characteristics.

Cyclophosphamide, an alkylating agent integral to specific cancer chemotherapy protocols, is often curtailed in application owing to its significant hepatotoxic side effects. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the hepatoprotective potential of sesamin, a plant-originated antioxidant, using rat models. The rats were divided into five groups: a control group received only the vehicle for six days; a cyclophosphamide group received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) single injection of cyclophosphamide (150 mg/kg) on day four; a sesamin group received a daily high oral dose (20 mg/kg) of sesamin for six days; and two groups were pretreated with oral sesamin (10 and 20 mg/kg daily from day one to day six) followed by an i.p. injection of cyclophosphamide on day four. The final and last sesamin dose was administered 24 h before euthanasia. At the end of the experiment, blood and liver tissue were collected for biochemical and histopathological assessments. The results indicated significantly increased liver markers (AST, ALT, ALP, and BIL), cytokines (TNFα and IL-1β), caspase-3, and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the cyclophosphamide group as compared to the normal control. Additionally, there was a significant decline in antioxidants (GSH) and antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD), but the sesamin treatment reduced liver marker enzymes, cytokines, and caspase-3 and improved antioxidants and antioxidant enzymes. Thus, sesamin effectively countered these alterations and helped to normalize the histopathological alterations. In conclusion, sesamin demonstrated the potential for attenuating cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity by modulating cytokine networks, apoptotic pathways, and oxidative stress, suggesting its potential role as an adjunct in chemotherapy to reduce hepatotoxicity.

Gender perspective on the association between liver enzyme markers and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: insights from the general population.

Every distinct liver enzyme biomarker exhibits a strong correlation with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aims to comprehensively analyze and compare the associations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) with NAFLD from a gender perspective. This study was conducted on 6,840 females and 7,411 males from the NAGALA cohort. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to compare the associations between liver enzyme markers and NAFLD in both genders, recording the corresponding adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the accuracy of individual liver enzyme markers and different combinations of them in identifying NAFLD. Liver enzyme markers ALT, AST, and GGT were all independently associated with NAFLD and exhibited significant gender differences (All P-interaction<0.05). In both genders, ALT exhibited the most significant association with NAFLD, with adjusted standardized ORs of 2.19 (95% CI: 2.01-2.39) in males and 1.60 (95% CI: 1.35-1.89) in females. Additionally, ROC analysis showed that ALT had significantly higher accuracy in identifying NAFLD than AST and GGT in both genders (Delong P-value < 0.05), and the accuracy of ALT in identifying NAFLD in males was higher than that in females [Area under the ROC curve (AUC): male 0.79, female 0.77]. Furthermore, out of the various combinations of liver enzymes, ALT+GGT showed the highest accuracy in identifying NAFLD in both genders, with AUCs of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.75-0.79) in females and 0.79 (95% CI: 0.78-0.81) in males. Our study revealed significant gender differences in the associations of the three commonly used liver enzyme markers with NAFLD. In both genders, the use of ALT alone may be the simplest and most effective tool for screening NAFLD, especially in males.

Effect of Ethanol Extract of Physalis angulata Roots on Some Liver Marker Enzymes in Male Wistar Albino Rats

While medicinal plants have garnered significant attention for their potential therapeutic applications in human diseases, the growing reliance on these plants in traditional medicine has raised concerns regarding their safety. This study seeks to evaluate the impact of the ethanol extract of Physalis angulata root on liver marker enzymes as a means of assessing its implications for liver health. Additionally, we present findings on the phytochemical composition and acute toxicity profile of the extract. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, reducing sugars, and carbohydrates in the extract. The median lethal dose (LD50) was determined to be 316.23 mg/kg of body weight. Our data revealed statistically significant increases (p≤0.05) in the levels of aspartate amino transferase (AST) and total bilirubin in comparison to the untreated control group. Notably, a significant reduction (p≤0.05) in alanine amino transferase (ALT) levels was observed at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight of the extract, while higher doses yielded an increase relative to the untreated control. There was also a significant increase (p≤0.05) in the level of total protein in groups treated with 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of the extract, and no significant difference (p≤0.05) in the group treated with 200 mg/kg of the extract relative to the untreated control group. There was no significant difference (p≤0.05) observed in the levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and albumin. In summary, our results indicate that the ethanol extract of Physalis angulata root exhibits dose-dependent toxicity, underscoring the importance of regulating the use of this plant in traditional medicine practices.

The Hepatic Antisteatosis Effect of Xanthohumol in High-Fat Diet-Fed Rats Entails Activation of AMPK as a Possible Protective Mechanism.

Obesity is the leading cause of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by provoking hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Low activity of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is linked to obesity, liver injury, and NAFLD. This study involves examining if the anti-steatosis effect of Xanthohumol (XH) in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats involves the regulation of AMPK. Adult male rats were divided into five groups (n = 8 each) as control (3.85 kcal/g); XH (control diet + 20 mg/kg), HFD (4.73 kcl/g), HFD + XH (20 mg/kg), and HFD + XH (30 mg/kg) + compound c (cc) (0.2 mg/kg). All treatments were conducted for 12 weeks. Treatment with XH attenuated the gain in body weight, fat pads, fasting glucose, and insulin in HFD rats. It also lowered serum leptin and free fatty acids (FFAs) and improved glucose and insulin tolerances in these rats. It also attenuated the increase in serum livers of liver marker enzymes and reduced serum and hepatic levels of triglycerides (TGs), cholesterol (CHOL), FFAs, as well as serum levels of low-density lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-c) oxidized LDL-c. XH also reduced hepatic levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nuclear accumulation of NF-κB, and the levels of tumor necrosis-factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) while stimulating the nuclear levels of Nrf2 and total levels of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in these HFD-fed rats. At the molecular levels, XH increased hepatic mRNA expression and phosphorylation of AMPK (Thr72) and reduced the expression of lipogenic genes SREBP1c and ACC-1. In concomitance, XH reduced hepatic liver droplet accumulation, reduced the number of apoptotic nuclei, and improved the structures of nuclei, mitochondria, and rough endoplasmic reticulum. Co-treatment with CC, an AMPK inhibitor, completely abolished all these effects of XH. In conclusion, XH attenuates obesity and HFD-mediated hepatic steatosis by activating hepatic AMPK.

Protective effect of Moringa oleifera Crude Leaf Extract on Chlorpyrifos-induced Liver damage in Wistar Albino Rats

Chlorpyrifos is a broad spectrum insecticide that is most frequently used in food production in the European Union (EU) until 2020. This compound exhibits a wide range of biological activity. It is applied in most agricultural products and households to combat pests. Chlorpyrifos acts by inhibiting cholinesterase activity that can lead to the alteration of normal biochemical and physiological conditions of the body. This study is aimed at investigating the effect of Crude Leaf extract of Moringa oleifera on Chlorpyrifos induced Liver injury in Wistar Albino Rats. Sixteen (16) Wistar Albino Rats weighing between 100g-250g were divided into four (4) Groups (Grp) of four (4) Rats each. Grp I serves as Normal Control (feed and water ad libitum), Grp II Negative Control (10mg/kg Chlorpyrifos mixed feed), Grp III serves as Extract grp (10mg/kg Moringa oleifera mixed feed) and Grp IV serves as Treatment grp ((10mg/kg Chlorpyrifos + 10mg/kg Moringa oleifera) mixed feed). The feeds were administered in pellets. The experiment lasted for twenty eight (28) days, after which serum was obtained for biochemical parameter (Liver function). Grp II shows an increased liver marker enzymes AST (173.75±21.84μ/L) when compared to Grp I with value of (146.60±21.94μ/L) and Grp III with a value of (140.75±11.12μ/L) and ALT (40.00±5.83 μ/L) compared to grp I and grp III with values of (33.80±4.49μ/L) and (33.25±7.41μ/L) respectively. ALP (Grp II) with a value of (155.00±16.23μ/L) compared to Grp I and Grp III (69.00±24.71μ/L) and (52.00±17.06μ/L) respectively. ALB (30.50±2.08g/L) when compared to Grp I and Grp III shows values of (28.60±2.41g/L) and (29.50±0.58g/L) respectively. There was no significant difference at P˃0.05. However, ALP shows a significantly higher value at P˂0.001. Values for all Liver enzymes were lower with P˃0.05 in Grp IV when compared with Grp II. There is also a reduced feed intake in Grp II at different days with P˃0.05 when compared with Grps III and IV. The Extract was found to have improved the hepatic disorder that was induced by Chlorpyrifos. The result showed some level of hepato-protective activities of Moringa oleifera Crude Leaf extract in Rats exposed to Chlorpyriphos.