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Protective Effects of Royal Jelly on Oxymetholone-Induced Liver Injury in Mice
Vahid Nejati1, Ensieh Zahmatkesh1, Mohammad Babaei2
1Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Science, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
Background:
The present study was carried out to investigate the possible protective effects of royal jelly (RJ) on oxymetholone (OXM)-induced oxidative liver injuries in mice.
Methods:
In total, 32 adult male NMRI mice were divided into four groups of eight mice each. Mice in groups 1 and 2 were orally administered 5 mg/kg/day OXM for 30 days. At the same time, mice in group 3 received RJ at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day. Saline control and RJ control groups were also included in this study.
Results:
Administration of 5 mg/kg OXM resulted in a significant decrease in total antioxidant capacity and catalase activity, as well as a significant increase in malondialdehyde (P<0.05). In addition, OXM-administrated mice showed a slight increase in liver enzymes, including alanine amino transferase, aspartate amino transferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Although OXM caused histopathological changes in the liver, RJ could significantly improve all of the above-mentioned parameters at a dose of 100 mg/kg.
Conclusion:
The results of the present study indicated that RJ has a partially protective effect on OXM-induced liver toxicity in mice.
Insights
Royal jelly (RJ) offers partial protection against oxymetholone (OXM)-induced liver damage in mice. RJ supplementation improved antioxidant capacity and liver enzyme levels, mitigating OXM toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Toxicology
- Natural Product Research
Background:
- Oxidative liver injury is a significant concern.
- Oxymetholone (OXM) is known to induce liver toxicity.
- Investigating natural compounds for hepatoprotective effects is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the protective potential of royal jelly (RJ) against oxymetholone (OXM)-induced oxidative liver injury.
- To assess the impact of RJ on key biomarkers of liver damage and oxidative stress.
- To determine the efficacy of RJ in mitigating OXM-induced hepatotoxicity in a murine model.
Main Methods:
- Adult male NMRI mice were divided into four groups.
- Groups received either oxymetholone (OXM) or royal jelly (RJ) at specific dosages for 30 days.
- Control groups received saline or RJ only.
Main Results:
- Oxymetholone administration significantly decreased total antioxidant capacity and catalase activity, while increasing malondialdehyde levels.
- Mice treated with OXM exhibited elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP) and histopathological liver damage.
- Royal jelly (100 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated these OXM-induced changes, improving antioxidant status and liver enzyme profiles.
Conclusions:
- Royal jelly demonstrates a partial protective effect against oxymetholone-induced liver toxicity in mice.
- RJ supplementation may help mitigate oxidative stress and liver damage caused by OXM.
- Further research into RJ's hepatoprotective mechanisms is warranted.
