Combination of Caffeine and Liver Albumin Plus Protects against Smoking-Induced Liver Injury in Rats

Background: A number of studies have revealed the hepatoprotective effect of coffee and tea. However, the role of caffeine on smoking-induced liver injury is not well elucidated. Liver Albumin Plus (LAP) is a liver supplement given in different liver diseases; to our knowledge, its role in smoking-induced liver injury is not clear. Objectives: This study aimed to find out the protective effect of caffeine and LAP alone and in combination in attenuation of smoking-induced liver injury. Methods: Thirty male albino rats were divided into a control group and a smoking group; the smoking group was then subdivided into a smoking group, a smoking + caffeine group, a smoking + LAP group, and a smoking + caffeine + LAP group. At the end of the experimental study, blood samples were collected for assessment of liver enzymes, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and interleukin 6, and livers were excised. Biochemical analysis of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) as well as histological examination were done. Results: The results showed that smoking elevated liver enzymes, AFP, H₂O₂, and HIF and decreased SOD; histologically, deterioration of the liver was observed. On administration of caffeine, significant ( p < 0.05) improvement in all measured parameters and preserved liver histological structure were observed, while intake of LAP alone showed some improvement. In combination, all liver parameters were improved and histological structure was preserved in contrast to each drug alone. Conclusion: It is better to give a combination of caffeine and LAP with cigarettes smoking to attenuate smoking-induced liver injury.