Evaluation of Hepatoprotective and Nephroprotective Effect of Α- Pinene on Wistar Albino Rat

Abstract

Introduction: Hepato-renal toxicity is a devastating, non-communicable disease. Because of a lack of information on low-cost management to combat the disease, this study postulates the ameliorative effect of selected phytoconstituents against toxicity. Aim and Objective: The current study reveals an active phytoconstituent, α- Pinene, that has the ability to combat the degenerative effects of CCl4. Methodology: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is an organic xenobiotic molecule as well as the most potent hepatotoxic agent used (1200 mg/kg body weight; i.p.) to induce hepato-renal toxicity in experimental rats. To determine in vivo hepato-renal toxicity, three different doses (0.05 ml/kg body weight, 0.1 ml/kg body weight, and 0.15 ml/kg body weight; intraperitoneally) were chosen. Vitamin C at the dose of 250 mg/kg/p.o. was used as a standard, due to its maximum ameliorative activity against oxidative damage in CCl4-induced hepato-renal toxicity in rats. For 7 days, the animals were pre-treated with α-pinene and Vitamin C. CCl4 was charged only on the 7th day. Result and Conclusion: The related biochemical tests were studied. CCl4 intoxication reduces mitochondrial membrane potential in liver and kidney cells, which accelerates excessive intracellular ROS production, but α-pinene pretreatment successfully restores it in both liver and kidney cells. Pretreatment with α-pinene and vitamin C for 7 days increased intracellular ameliorative capability in hepatic and renal cells significantly (p 0.01). In conclusion, α-pinene is capable of restoring antioxidant status by quenching intracellular ROS. As a result, α-pinene has the potential to provide hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects against CCl4-induced toxicity in rats.