Anti-Fibrotic Efficacy of Apigenin in a Mice Model of Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatic Fibrosis by Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Fibrogenesis: A Preclinical Study

Background: Hepatic fibrosis is a major health problem all over the world, and there is no effective treatment to cure it. Hence, the current study sought to assess the anti-fibrotic efficacy of apigenin against CCl(4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in mice. Methods: Forty-eight mice were put into six groups. G1: Normal Control, G2: CCl(4) Control, G3: Silymarin (100 mg/kg), G4 and G5: Apigenin (2 &20 mg/Kg), G6: Apigenin alone (20 mg/Kg). Groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 were given CCl(4) (0.5 mL/kg. i.p.) twice/week for six weeks. The level of AST, ALT, TC, TG, and TB in serum and IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in tissue homogenates were assessed. Histological studies by H&E staining and Immunostaining of liver tissues were also performed. Results: The CCl(4)-challenged group showed increased serum AST (4-fold), ALT (6-fold), and TB (5-fold). Both silymarin and apigenin treatments significantly improved these hepatic biomarkers. The CCl(4)-challenged group showed reduced levels of CAT (89%), GSH (53%), and increased MDA (3-fold). Both silymarin and apigenin treatments significantly altered these oxidative markers in tissue homogenates. The CCl(4)-treated group showed a two-fold increase in IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels. Silymarin and apigenin treatment considerably decreased the IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels. Apigenin treatment inhibited angiogenic activity, as evidenced by a decrease in VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) expression in liver tissues, and a decline in vascular endothelial cell antigen expression (CD34). Conclusions: Finally, these data collectively imply that apigenin may have antifibrotic properties, which may be explained by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiangiogenic activities.