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An Experimental Study: Benefits of Digoxin on Hepatotoxicity Induced by Methotrexate Treatment

Banu Taskin1, Mümin Alper Erdoğan2, Gürkan Yiğittürk3

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Koc University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.

Gastroenterology Research and Practice
|November 22, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Digoxin demonstrates therapeutic potential by reducing liver damage and inflammation in a rat model of methotrexate-induced hepatotoxicity. This cardiac glycoside offers a promising anti-inflammatory and antihepatotoxic effect for liver injury.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Toxicology
  • Hepatology

Background:

  • Methotrexate (MTX) is known to cause liver injury.
  • Investigating therapeutic agents for MTX-induced hepatotoxicity is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the therapeutic effects of digoxin on MTX-induced hepatotoxicity in a rat model.
  • To assess digoxin's impact on biochemical and histological markers of liver injury.

Main Methods:

  • Twenty-four male rats were used, with 18 receiving MTX to induce hepatotoxicity.
  • Hepatotoxic rats were divided into groups receiving digoxin or saline for ten days.
  • Blood and liver samples were analyzed for markers like ALT, MDA, TNF-α, TGF-β, IL-6, IL-1-Beta, and PTX3.

Main Results:

  • MTX induced significant structural and functional hepatotoxicity, confirmed by histopathology and elevated biochemical markers.
  • Digoxin treatment markedly reduced liver enzyme ALT, MDA, and plasma markers TNF-α, TGF-β, and PTX3.
  • Histological damage in the liver tissue was significantly decreased following digoxin administration.

Conclusions:

  • Digoxin exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antihepatotoxic properties.
  • The findings suggest digoxin as a potential therapeutic agent for MTX-induced liver injury.
  • Further research may explore digoxin's mechanisms in mitigating liver damage.

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