Hepato-protective Effects of Ocimum Canum Sims Hydro-alcoholic Leaf Extract in I/R Induced Hepatic Injury in Rats

Abstract

AIM: The plant Ocimum canum Sims (Family: Lamiaceae) is rich in antioxidants, particularly in flavonoids. It has been highly useful in treating various types of diseases and in lowering blood glucose,especially in managing diabetes mellitus. The aim of our work is to evaluate the effect of Ocimum canum on a model of hepatic ischemiareperfusion in Rat. METHOD: Wistar albino rats were subjected to 45 min of hepatic ischemia, followed by a 60 min reperfusion period. Ocimum canum (OC) hydro-alcoholic leaf extract were administered in doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg/day, orally for 15 days before I/R injury respectively and repeated before the reperfusion period. Liver samples were taken for histological examination or determination of hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione (GSH) activity. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT,) alkaline phosphatase (ALP)and total bilirubin levels were determined to assess liver functions.Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was assayed in serum samples for the evaluation of generalized tissue damage. RESULTS: Ischemia/reperfusion caused a significant decrease in hepatic SOD, catalase and GSH, and significant increase in MDA levels. Serum AST, ALT, ALP and bilirubin levels, as well as LDH activity levels were also elevated in the I/R group. Treatment with OC hydro-alcoholic leaf extract reversed all these biochemical parameters as well as histological alterations induced by I/R. In all the testing, a significant correlation existed between concentrations of the extract and alteration in the biochemical and histological parameters. CONCLUSION: OC hydro-alcoholic leaf extract at the dose of 400 mg/kg/day reduced I/R-induced organ injury through its ability to balance the oxidant–antioxidant status.