ROLE OF EMBLICA OFFICINALIS IN COPPER INDUCED LIVER TOXICITY IN ADULT ALBINO RATS
Abstract
Background: Copper (Cu) is an important heavy metal used widely in all industries. However, its toxicity on various organs is established. Emblica officinalis, commonly known as Amla, is a potential antioxidant and can prevent Cu induced hepatotoxicity.
Objective: To evaluate the effects of Emblica officinalis extract on liver histology and Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) levels after Cu induced toxicity on adult albino rats.
Methods: This was an experimental study of 28 days duration. 36 adult male albino rats were divided into three groups of twelve animals each. Group A was control group in which rats were given 1.5 ml normal saline while group B rats were given CuSO4 200mg/kg b.w./day. Rats in Group C were given both CuSO4 (200mg/kg b.w/day) and Emblica officinalis fruit extract (300mg/kg bw/day). The agents were fed via orogastric tube for four weeks and rats were sacrificed 24 hours after administration of last dose.
Results: Cu treated rats showed necrosis of hepatocytes and Increased serum ALT levels. Emblica officinalis co-treatment attenuated Cu-induced hepatic necrosis and variation in ALT levels. The difference among the groups was statistically significant with p-value <0.05.
Conclusion: Emblica officinalis fruit extract improves liver function in Cu induced hepatotoxicity by limiting oxidative damage.
