Nature's Defense: Elaegnus umbellata as a Potent Ally Against Carbon TetrachlorideInduced Liver Injury

Abstract

Background: Hepatocellular damage in liver failure depends on  type, duration and severity of toxic agent. The accumulation of  toxins enhances liver damage leading to hepatocellular apoptosis  and necrosis. It can lead to scarring (cirrhosis), which is a life  threatening condition. Many plants are used as protective agent  against hepatocellular impairment. The current study aims to  investigate the preventative effects of Elaeagnus umbellata fruit  extract on carbon tetra chloride induced hepatocellular injury in  mice. Methods:  Four groups of twenty male swiss albino mice  were made: the control group, the CCl4 group, the low dose extract  treated group (CCl4+ low dose), and the high dose extract treated  group (CCl4+ high dose). Result: Higher plasma concentrations comprising the enzymes alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate  aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) at the  end of the experiment indicated hepatocyte apoptosis and necrosis as well as portal/periportal inflammation in the group treated with  CCl4. In contrast, treatment of Elaeagnus umbellata extract at low  and high doses effectively reduced the increased AST, ALP, and  ALT activity in plasma. Liver histopathology showed that  Elaeagnus umbellata extract reduced the occurrence of liver  abnormalities in mice. Conclusion: Elaeagnus umbellata has  potential to shield liver from oxidative damage.