Hepatoprotective Role of Nerium Oleander in Thioacetamide-Induced Chronic Inflammation

Background and Aims: Many plant extracts and their bioactive substances are well recognized for their potential chemoprotective role in the treatment of liver injury induced by viruses, chemicals and drugs. This study is an attempt to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of Nerium oleander leaves extract against thioacetamide (TAA) induced liver damage.

Methods: Fifteen Wistar rats of either sex were randomly divided into three groups. Group I is provided with normal drinking water while group II and III were orally given TAA (200 mg/l) in drinking water for 18 weeks. Additionally Group III was treated with Nerium oleander leaves extract for seven days. Liver damage was assessed by hematological, biochemical parameters and histopathological observations. Data were analyzed by using one way ANOVA test with Tukey's post hoc test and Prussian blue staining.

Results: Significant variations were observed in TLC, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and MCHC with P= 0.009, P= 0.0001, P= 0.01 and P= 0.03, respectively. Serological analysis also showed significant variations in total lipids, triglycerides, H.D.L., L.D.L, and BSR with P= 0.0001, P=< 0.0001, P= 0.02, P= 0.002 and P= 0.03 respectively. Blue stained hemosiderin granules were observed in the peripheral area of hepatic lobules and mainly in kupffer cells in group II while lesser degree of iron deposition was observed in group III. Meanwhile, there was no noticeable hemosiderin granule in the group I.

Conclusion: These finding indicate that TAA disturbs hematological, serological and histological aspects whereas Nerium oleander leaves extract has potential activity against TAA-induced liver damage.

Corresponding author: Sheikh, Nadeem

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