Enhanced Bioactive Recovery via Microwave-Assisted Extraction: Superior Hepatoprotective Potency of Silybum marianum Against Lead-Induced Oxidative Stress Over Conventional Antioxidants

Silybum marianum extract may help reduce liver damage from lead exposure, but further research, especially in humans, is necessary to confirm these findings.

Summary and findings

This study evaluated the hepatoprotective efficacy of a microwave-assisted extract of Silybum marianum against lead-induced oxidative stress in male Wistar rats. The extract was compared with standard antioxidants, vitamin C and glutathione, at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg. Treatment with the extract, particularly at 200 mg/kg, normalized liver biomarkers and reduced oxidative stress.

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> <p> Exposure to lead induced oxidative stress and caused damage to vital organs such as liver, the primary site of storage, detoxification and metabolism. This study evaluates the hepatoprotective efficacy of microwave-assisted, flavonolignan-enriched extract of <italic>Silybum marianum</italic> seeds against the Pb - acetate hydrate induced hepatotoxicity in male wistar rats, and compares it with vitamin C and glutathione.- standard antioxidants in wistar rat model. Rats were assigned to five groups, with six rats per group: normal control, disease control (Pb - treated), positive control (receiving Vitamin C and glutathione - standard antioxidants) and two treatment groups receiving 100mg/kg and 200 mg/kg flavolignan- rich <italic>Silybum marianum</italic> seed extract. Lead exposure led to increased liver function markers (ALT, ALP, AST), total bilirubin, globulin and elevated oxidative stress (Increased expression of endogenous enzymatic defenses and melanoaldehyde level) in serum. Histopathological examination of liver tissue also showed liver damages. However, treatment with the <italic>Silybum marianum</italic> seed extract, especially at the 200mg/kg (high dose) or the antioxidant combination of vitamin C and glutathione normalized liver biomarkers, reducing MDA level and oxidative stress, preserved histology of liver tissue. These findings support that <italic>Silybum marianum</italic> and a combination of vitamin C and glutathione help reduce liver damage caused by lead toxicity. These results support their protective and therapeutic effect against lead - induced hepatotoxicity.To confirm effectiveness and establish the ideal dosage for clinical uses, more research including human trial is advised. </p>

Limitations

Not reported in abstract.

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