Evaluation of the Curative and Protective Role of Fresh Chicory Juice in Treatment of Hepatic Fibrosis in Male Albino Rats
Ahmed Algazeery1
, Ahmed H. Moustafa2 , Ashraf S. El-Sayed3 , Marwa G. Rizk2 and Norhan A. Sabbah4 1Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
2Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
3Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Egypt
4Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
Corresponding Author E-mail: asalgazeery@zu.edu.eg
Abstract: Background: Using synthetic drugs for treating liver fibrosis remains a challenge since, in contrast to natural products, are remarkably expensive and associated with several adverse effects. Herbs and plants showed strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Aim: To investigate the hepatoprotective role of fresh chicory juice in delaying the immune response of hepatic cells to Carbon tetrachloride [CCl4]-induced fibrosis. Methods: Fresh chicory plant juice [50%] was given instead of drinking water to male albino rats [150-200 g]. Blood samples were collected for biochemical evaluation of liver and kidney function, antioxidant markers, lipid profile, and gene expression of TGF-ß by quantitative real-time quantification polymerase chain reaction [q PCR]. Liver tissue was removed and subjected to histopathological and genomic DNA fragmentation assay. Results: Measurements of liver enzymes, kidney function, lipid profile and levels of antioxidants confirmed the ability of chicory to protect the liver against CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by acting as a good inhibitor of TGF-ß. These results were confirmed by histopathological examination and DNA fragmentation. Conclusion: Administration of fresh chicory juice [50%] showed a significant protective role of chicory plant in delaying CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by decreasing TGF-ß.
Keywords: Collagen; Chicory; CCL4; DNA; Fibrosis; Liver; TGF-beta Back to TOC