Possible Protective Effects of Amla (Emblica officinalis) on Gamma-Irradiated Male Albino Rats

Abstract

Possible Protective Effects of Amla (Emblica Officinalis) on Gamma-Irradiated Male Albino Rats. Exposure to oxidative stresses, including different environmental pollutants and ionizing radiation, is known to exert deleterious effects on tissues, through the release of free radicals. Hydroxyl radicals are considered the most damaging free radicals generated in an organism. They are often responsible for DNA and genetic damage, lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein denaturation, impaired immune and endocrine systems, as well as impaired enzyme activity. Excessive production of free radicals and the dysfunction of the antioxidant system within the organism, initiates and propagates processes involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Antioxidants are either exogenous, i.e. supplied by dietary sources; or endogenous, such as the glutathione defense system, enzymes (SOD, CAT) and hormones (e.g melatonin). Studies describing the effects of oral administration of Emblica officinalis (EO) have shown that it plays beneficial roles in combating diseases/disorders such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and in the immune function. The effects of EO on hormones, mitochondria and stress are, however, scarce in the literature.