Effects of gallic acid on intraperitoneal adhesion bands in rats

OBJECTIVE: Gallic acid (GA) is an organic acid that possesses anti-inflammatory effects as it inhibits the production of metalloproteinases, tissue plasminogen activator, growth factors and adhesion molecules. Since formation of abdominal surgery-induced adhesion bands is accompanied by inflammation, angiogenesis and cell proliferation, in the current study, we assessed potential beneficial properties of GA against adhesion bands formation in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six adult male rats were assigned into six groups of six animals. After induction of anesthesia, peritoneal injury was induced using a standard method and animals received either GA (10, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg), or normal saline, while a group of rats remained intact. Seven days after the surgery, animals were decapitated and samples were collected for pathology evaluations. Also, lipid peroxidation (TBARS) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were determined in serum samples. RESULTS: Our results showed that GA significantly reduced lipid peroxidation in serum samples but had no effect on TNF-α levels. Furthermore, microscopic and macroscopic injuries reduced significantly in GA-treated animals. CONCLUSION: Since GA reduced adhesion bands formation at microscopic and macroscopic levels, it could be considered a treatment against adhesion bands formation.