Use of Arctium lappa Extract Against Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

BACKGROUND: Severe destructive hepatic injuries can be induced by acetaminophen overdose and may lead to acute hepatic failure. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the ameliorative effects of Arctium lappa root extract on acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity. METHODS: Rats were divided into 4 groups: normal control group, Arctium lappa extract group, acetaminophen-injected group, and acetaminophen treated with Arctium lappa extract group. RESULTS: The treatment with Arctium lappa extract reduced serum alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase in the acetaminophen group when compared with the control group. DNA fragments in the acetaminophen-injected group were also significantly increased (P < 0.05). The comet assay revealed increased detaching tail length and DNA concentration during the hepatic toxicity in the acetaminophen group. The malondialdehyde content was inhibited by Arctium lappa treatment (12.97±0.89 nmol/mg) when compared with the acetaminophen-treated-only group (12.97±0.89 nmol/mg). Histopathologic examination revealed that acetaminophen administration produced hepatic cell necrosis, infiltrate of lymphocytes, and vacuolation that were associated with the acetaminophen-treated animal group, but the degree of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity was mediated by treatment with Arctium lappa extract. CONCLUSIONS: Arctium lappa can prevent most of the hepatic tissue damage caused by acetaminophen overdose in rats.