Benzo (a)‎ pyrene induced liver disorders in rats : possible protective effects of mulberry (Morus alba L.)‎ leaves

Abstract EN

The present study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of mulberry leaves on rat liver injuries induced by Benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P].

Mulberry leaves powder (MLP) was prepared and its chemical composition, bioactive compounds content and antioxidant activity were detected.

The obtained data indicated that MLP contain high levels of protein, ash, crude fiber, carbohydrates, antioxidant vitamins (A, C and E) and non-nutrient antioxidants (phenolics and carotenoids) as well as exhibited high antioxidant activity (65.54%).

For biological experiments, MLP has been fed at concentrations ranged 1 to 4 % in basal diet of rats for 2 weeks then injected with B(a)P to induce liver injuries.

Treatment of animals with B(a)P caused a significant increased (p<0.05) in AST (69.77%), ALT (99.19 %) and ALP (131.93 %) compared to normal group.

Also, B(a)P treatment brought a significant (p<0.05) increase in the activity of drug metabolizing enzymes (cytochrome P450, Cyt P450) and significant (p<0.01) decrease in both serum triglycerides and liver glycogen content by the ratio of 47.53, -71.80 and -77.89%, respectively.

Supplementation of the rat diets with MLP prevented partially the rise of liver function enzymes activities (AST, ALT and ALP) and cytochrome P450 (Cyt P450) as well as decrease in both serum triglycerides and the liver glycogen level.

The results of this study suggest that treatment with MLP proved beneficial on manipulation of the liver injuries induced by B(a)P.

Therefore, we recommended MLP by a concentration of about 4% to be included in our daily diets, drinks and food products.