Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Activity of Kaempferol against DEN-Induced Rat Liver Injury

Liver diseases have emerged as a substantial global health concern with high mortality rates. Kaempferol (Kmp), a plant-derived flavonoid, has been reported to play a valuable role in the management of various pathological conditions. This study aimed to determine the hepatoprotective potential of kaempferol in rats with DEN-induced liver injury. An experimental rat model of liver injury was developed by DEN administration. Liver function enzymes, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), were measured. Oxidative stress markers, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, CRP, IL-۱β, and IL-۶) were assessed. The hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson trichrome staining were made to evaluate tissue architecture and fibrosis. IL-۶ protein expression was further examined by immunohistochemistry. DEN administration meaningfully elevated liver function enzymes (ALT, ALP, and AST), increased inflammatory cytokines, and reduced antioxidant enzyme activities. It also caused marked histopathological damage, including inflammatory cell infiltration, congestion, hemorrhage, as well as fibrosis, along with increased IL-۶ protein expression. Treatment with Kmp significantly reduced liver enzyme levels, restored antioxidant enzyme activities, and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines as compared to the DEN-treated group. Moreover, Kmp evidently improved liver tissue architecture, reduced fibrosis, inflammation, and IL-۶ expression. Kmp exhibits substantial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect the liver. These findings suggest that Kmp may serve as a promising natural therapeutic candidate for the management of liver-associated pathogenesis.

کلیدواژه ها:

kaempferol ، oxidative stress ، Inflammation ، hepatoprotective property