Extract of the Punica granatum flowers attenuates progression of hepatoxicity against cadmium chloride-induced liver injury in rats

In the present study, we investigated the role of cadmium in acute liver injury, as well as the underlying mechanisms.

On the other hand, we investigated whether Punica granatum flower extract (PG) has a healing effect on CD-induced liver damage. Control groups (G1-G2) received water and 200 mg/kg PG, respectively. Toxicity groups (G3-G6) received 2 different doses of Cd (15-30 mg/kg b.w) orally in a single administration. To evaluate liver function, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) were detected in the serum, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were established in the liver and 8-hydroxy-20-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels were determined for the antioxidative and anti -inflammatory effects of PG. Tissue sections were also evaluated histopathologically.

We found that Cd exposure decreased levels of SOD, GPx and, increased expression of caspase-3 and levels of TBARS and 8-OHdG. Biochemical and histopathological analysis revealed the toxic effects of cadmium on the liver for the rats in oral acute toxicity study. Functional parameters were significantly improved in PG-treated groups and the severity of the liver injury and apoptosis were significantly decreased in this group.

As a result, PG can be consumed as a protective agent against acute liver injuries.