Possible protective effect of morin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, on flutamide- induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible beneficial effects of morin on flutamide (FLU)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into six experimental groups (n = 7/group): Group I (control group) received appropriate vehicle only; Groups II &III (CM & M groups) were treated with morin for 4 and 8 weeks, respectively; Group IV (CF group) received FLU for 4 weeks; Group V (CMF group) received morin associated with FLU for 4 weeks and Group VI (MMF group) was pretreated with morin for 4 weeks then treated with morin simultaneously with FLU for additional 4 weeks. Histopathological examination of liver sections from FLU-group showed severe alterations including architectural distortions of the hepatic cords, cytoplasmic degeneration, and necrosis of some hepatocytes together with inflammatory cellular infiltration. Dilatation and congestion of central and portal veins were also detected. Histochemical observations revealed marked reduction in polysaccharide and total protein contents of the hepatocytes. Ultrastructural observations were also in agreement with the above abnormal changes. On the other hand, administration of morin with FLU successfully improves this microscopic picture. In conclusion, these data showed protective effect of morin against FLU-induced hepatic damage, especially when administered prior to and concomitantly with FLU. Key words: Flutamide, Liver, Morin, Histology, Histochemistry, Ultrastructure.