Effect of ferulic acid and ellagic acid on rats exposed to gamma radiation and aluminum chloride treatment

Abstract

Ionizing radiation interacts with biological systems through the generation of free radicals, which induce oxidative stress leading to cellular damage. Aluminium (Al) and its salts are commonly used in daily life. However, this element can negatively impact human health by direct interaction with enzymes known to protect the cells from oxidative damage. Naturally occurring antioxidants are being extensively analyzed for their ability to protect against oxidative stress. Ellagic acid (EA) and Ferulic acid (FA) are plant polyphenolic compounds, have gained attention due to their multiple biological activities.

Purpose The present study was conducted to investigate the potential protective effect of EA and/or FA against the toxic effects induced by γ radiation and/or AlCl3 in male albino rats.

Materials and methods The experimental animals were randomly divided into 13 groups: 1) A negative control group 2) γ-irradiated group 3) AlCl3-treated group 4) AlCl3-treated + γ-irradiated group 5) EA + γ-irradiated group 6) FA + γ-irradiated group 7) EA + FA + γ-irradiated group 8) EA + AlCl3-treated group 9) FA + AlCl3-treated group 10) EA + FA + AlCl3-treated group 11) EA + AlCl3-treated + γ-irradiated group 12) FA + AlCl3-treated + γ-irradiated group 13) EA + FA + AlCl3-treated + γ-irradiated group

• Liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP and GGT activities as well as bilirubin concentration) were assessed in the serum. • Lipid profile (TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C and VLDL-C) was assessed in the serum. • MDA and PCC levels were determined in the liver tissue homogenate. • CAT, GPx and SOD enzymes activity as well as GSH level were detected in the liver tissue homogenate. • The concentrations of Cu, Fe and Zn were estimated in the liver tissue homogenate. • Liver tissues were examined by histological analysis.