Hepatoprotective activity of Chenopodium album Linn: in vitro and in vivo studies

摘要

Objective: The hepatoprotective activity of Chenopodium album Linn leaves against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity was investigated. Methods: Rat hepatocyte monolayer culture and rats were used as in vitro and in vivo hepatoprotective screening models. In the in vitro studies, different extracts and fractions of C.album were screened. Silymarin was taken as reference drug. In vitro antioxidant activity was also assessed. In the in vivo studies, hepatotoxicity was induced in wistar rats by administering a mixture of CCl4: olive oil (1:1, 2 ml/kg, s.c.). The extent of hepatotoxicity was assessed by measuring the serum enzyme levels. The antioxidant parameters, malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase of the liver tissue were also assessed. Results: In the in vitro studies, ethanol extract of C.album was found to be most active than other screened extracts/fractions. Furthermore, ethanol extract was found to be rich in phenolic and flavonoids and showed significant free radical scavenging activity against diphenylpicryl hydrazyl (DPPH) and superoxide ion radicals. In the in vivo studies, ethanol extract at a dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w. exhibited significant protection against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity as evident by prevention of CCl4-induced biochemical changes. Conclusion: The findings of present study concluded the significant hepatoprotective activity of ethanol extract of C.album leaves against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity and suggest its use as potential therapeutic agent for liver diseases.