Hepatoprotectivе effect of the thoroughwax extract in experimental tetracycline-induced hepatitis

Abstract

Prevalence of drug-induced hepatic disorders has greatly increased during recent years, and the use of herbal remedies is considered relevant for their prevention and treatment. A promising object for development of such drugs is thoroughwax (Bupleurum aureum). A dry extract of this herb was developed and standardized at the National Research Institute of Therapeutic and Aromatic Plants. The extract contains flavonoids, saponins, polysaccharides, and tanning substances of the catechine group. The content of phenolic substances is not less than 6% in rutin equivalents. Aim. To study hepatoprotective effects of the thoroughwax (Bupleurum aureum Fisch.) extract in rats with experimental tetracycline-induced hepatitis as compared to a well-known herbal hepatoprotective agent, Silimar. Hepatoprotective and detoxifying properties of the thoroughwax extract were assessed by changes in concentrations of microsomal protein and cytochrome P450 in hepatic microsomal fractions and changes in activities of key enzymes of the hepatic microsomal detoxifying system, which catalyzes enzyme reactions of cytochrome P450 and glutathione transferase. Results. The thoroughwax extract at an experimental therapeutic dose of 100 mg/kg provided significant hepatoprotective and detoxifying effects and induced a strong activation of the microsomal detoxifying enzymes, cytochrome P450 and glutathione transferase, in the rat liver. The thoroughwax extract is promising for development of new, effective herbal drugs for prevention and treatment of drug-induced hepatic disorders.