MODULATION OF CARCINOGEN-METABOLIZING ENZYME BY MADINAH MINT (Mentha spp) IN RAT LIVER

BACKGROUND: The present study was undertaken to assess whether boiling water mint extract (BWME) modulates the cytochrome P(450) mixed function oxidase system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male albino rats were randomly divided into two groups, comprising 12 animals each. The first group served as control, whereas the second was maintained on BWME (10 % w/v) as its sole drinking liquid for six weeks. Liver microsomal were separated and subjected for phase I and II enzymes (cytochrome P450 mixed function oxidase) analysis RESULTS: The results obtained showed that, BWME caused a significant elevation in the activity of epoxide hydrolase (p<0.001) when compared with the control. However, glutathione S-transferase and glucuronosyl transferase activities were significantly decreased (p<0.001 and p<0.01) respectively compared with control. The mutagenic activity of N-nitrosopiperidine was lower in the mint-treated hepatic microsomal compared with the controls. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that BWME has the potential to suppress the activity of cytochrome enzymes involved in the bio-activation of chemical carcinogen; hence may display chemo preventive activity.