Protective Role of Genistein in Acute Liver Damage Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride

Aim . In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of genistein in experimental acute liver damage induced by CCl 4 . Method . Forty rats were equally allocated to 5 groups. The first group was designated as the control group (group 1). The second group was injected with intraperitoneal CCl 4 for 3 days (group 2). The third group was injected with subcutaneous 1 mg/kg genistein for 4 days starting one day before CCl 4 injection. The fourth group was injected with intraperitoneal CCl 4 for 7 days. The fifth group was injected with subcutaneous 1 mg/kg genistein for 8 days starting one day before CCl 4 injection. Plasma and liver tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and liver glutathione levels, as well as AST and ALT levels were studied. A histopathological examination was conducted. Results . Liver tissue MDA levels were found significantly lower in group 3, in comparison to group 2 ( P < .05). Liver tissue MDA level in group 5 was significantly lower than that in group 4 ( P < .001). Liver tissue glutathione levels were higher in group 5 and 3, relative to groups 4 and 2, respectively ( P > .05 for each). Inflammation and focal necrosis decreased in group 3, in comparison to group 2 ( P < .001 for each). Inflammation and focal necrosis in group 5 was lower than that in group 4 ( P < .001). Actin expression decreased significantly in group 5, relative to group 4 ( P < .05). Conclusion . Genistein has anti-inflammatory and antinecrotic effects on experimental liver damage caused by CCl 4 . Genistein reduces liver damage by preventing lipid peroxidation and strengthening antioxidant systems.