Evaluation of the Protective Effect of Tomato Seed Aqueous Extract on Statin Drug Induced Liver Damage of Albino Rats

Abstract

Statins (simvastin) are among the drug most commonly used for lowing blood cholesterol, but sometimes associate with adverse effects. Tomato seed extract has been found to exert hepatoprotective effect through its anti-inflammatory and bioactive properties. The aim of the study was carried out to evaluate the protective effect of tomato seed extract on the stastin induce liver damage of albino rats damaged. Twenty-five (25) albino rats weighing 150-200 grams were used, and grouped into five groups of five animals each. The experimental group (1-3) was induced with orally stastin 100mg/kg b.wt for 14 days and then varying doses of 200 mg, 300mg, 400mg, of tomato seed extract for 14 days respectively. Group 4 (negative control) received orally statins 100mg/kg b.wt for 14 days only while group 5 (normal control) received only food and water. Animal treatment was conducted for 28days before sacrifice. Blood samples for biochemical analysis were collected through retro-orbital puncture and the liver tissue excised for histological analysis.
Results: There was significant elevation of the liver enzyme parameters, ALT, AST, and ALP among medium and high dose extract treatment groups. Histomorphological examination revealed that the low dose exerted a significant healing effect than the higher doses. Tomato seed extract hepatotoxic protective effect appeared to be dose dependent in the experimental studies.