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Protective effect of the mold Monascus anka against acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity in rats
Y Aniya1, T Yokomakura, M Yonamine
1Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan.
Abstract:
Antioxidant and hepatoprotective actions of the mold Monascus anka (also called Beni-Koji in Japan) against acetaminophen (AAP)-induced liver toxicity were investigated. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities increased by AAP (180 mg/kg, i.p.) treatment were depressed when the Beni-Koji preparation (4 ml/kg, i.p.) was given 15 and 1 hr before AAP administration. The decrease in liver cytosolic GST activity by AAP, reflecting the release of the enzyme into serum, was also blocked by the mold. Cytochrome P450 activity was inhibited by the Beni-Koji preparation. These results suggest that M. anka prevents AAP-induced liver toxicity by both antioxidant action and the inhibition of AAP metabolism.
Insights
The mold Monascus anka, or Beni-Koji, demonstrated antioxidant and liver-protective effects against acetaminophen-induced liver injury. It reduced elevated liver enzymes and inhibited harmful metabolic pathways, suggesting therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
- Mycology
Background:
- Acetaminophen (AAP) overdose is a leading cause of acute liver injury.
- The mold Monascus anka (Beni-Koji) is traditionally used in some cultures.
- Investigating natural compounds for hepatoprotective effects is crucial for drug discovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Monascus anka against acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the protective actions of Monascus anka.
Main Methods:
- Animal model of acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity.
- Administration of Monascus anka preparation before acetaminophen exposure.
- Measurement of serum and liver enzyme activities (aspartate aminotransferase, glutathione S-transferase).
- Assessment of cytochrome P450 activity.
Main Results:
- Monascus anka administration significantly reduced elevated serum aspartate aminotransferase and glutathione S-transferase activities induced by acetaminophen.
- The mold prevented the decrease in liver cytosolic glutathione S-transferase activity.
- Monascus anka inhibited cytochrome P450 activity, a key enzyme in acetaminophen metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Monascus anka exhibits significant hepatoprotective effects against acetaminophen-induced liver toxicity.
- The protective mechanisms involve both antioxidant actions and the inhibition of acetaminophen metabolism.
- Monascus anka demonstrates potential as a natural therapeutic agent for liver protection.