Quercetin Nanoparticles as a Promising Intervention against Ethion‐Induced Hepatic Damage in Wistar Albino Rats.

Abstract

AbstractThe current study investigated the therapeutic potential of quercetin and quercetin nanoparticles in alleviating liver toxicity induced by ethion in Wistar albino rats. Quercetin nanoparticles were synthesized using the ionic‐gelation method. Rats were exposed to ethion alone (at high and low doses) or in combination with quercetin or quercetin nanoparticles. Ethion exposure led to significant decreases in organ weight, along with elevated levels of glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein, and acid phosphatase, and reduced high‐density lipoprotein in serum. Hepatocellular biomarker enzymes were increased in the ethion‐exposed group, while antioxidant enzyme levels were decreased. Histopathological analysis revealed fatty changes, degeneration, and hemorrhages in the liver. Co‐administration of quercetin nanoparticles mitigated these effects, potentially by neutralizing reactive oxygen species generated by ethion. Molecular docking studies suggested a strong interaction between quercetin and Cyp2E1, implicating a role in detoxification. This study highlights the potential of nanoquercetin as a therapeutic supplement for pesticide intoxication management.