Hepatoprotective Effects of Justicia insularis Leaf Extract and Fractions against Doxorubicin-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Abstract

Justicia insularis (Acanthaceae) T. Anderson, a vegetable also used in treating a number of diseases locally was tested for effect on doxorubicin (Dox)-induced liver damage. The plant's leaf extract (100 - 400 mg/kg) and fractions (dichloromethane (DCM) and aqueous) (200 mg/kg) were investigated for protective properties in counterracting Dox-induced liver damage in male rats. Forty male rats were divided into eight groups of five rats each and treated with the leaf extract/fractions as well as doxorubicin on alternate days for 14 days. Liver function indices and histology as well as antioxidant molecules levels were the parameters considered to investigate the liver protective properties of the extract/fractions. Significant (p<0.05-0.01) lowering of the serum levels of liver function parameters which were raised by Dox was observed in the groups treated with leaf extract/fractions. In addition, reversal of lowered levels of total protein and albumin was observed with co-administration of the extract/fractions. The Dox-activated lowered enzymatic and non enzymatic molecules level were significantly (p<0.01) raised, and the high level of MDA, lowered following leaf extract/fractions treatment. Histopathological study of the liver sections of extract/fractions-treated rats showed lowering of injury signs relative to the doxorubicin only-treated animals. The result patterns of biochemical and histopathological findings were similar, suggesting a a considerable liver protective property. The protective potential of this plant maybe due to the activities of its phytochemical constituents.