Ameliorative Potential of Naringin Against Di-n-butyl phthalate-Induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Rats

Abstract

Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), a ubiquitous plasticizer, is widely used in many industrial products and directly involved in numerous health issues. Naringin (NG) is a dietary flavonoid that possesses numerous health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative potential of NG against the hepatorenal toxicity of DBP. Rats were assigned into six groups, and treated orally, 3 times a week for 8 consecutive weeks. Control vehicle group received olive oil, NG group received NG (80 mg/kg), DBP 250 and DBP 500 groups received DBP 250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively, NG+DBP 250 and NG+DBP 500 groups received NG, an hour before DBP 250 and DBP 500administration, respectively. DBP evoked dose-dependent elevations in the serum aminotransferases activities, and urea, creatinine, and malondialdehyde levels, accompanied with a significant reduction in the serum total antioxidant capacity. Histopathologically, DBP 250 intoxication induced mitotic changes in some hepatocytes and mild hydropic degeneration in hepatocytes, decreased the size of the glomerular tuft, and increased the size of Bowman's space of the kidney. Moreover, DBP 500groupshowed mitotic changes in several hepatocytes and moderate hydropic degeneration in hepatocytes, sloughing of epithelial cells of the Bowman's space, and accumulation of proteinaceousmaterial in Bowman’s space and renal tubules. Contrariwise, concurrent treatment with NG substantially attenuated the hepatorenal toxic effects of DBP, evidenced by the notable improvement in the serum biomarkers and histological architectures of the liver and kidneys. In conclusion, NG, by means of its natural antioxidant activity, could be a valuable phytochemical against DBP-inflicted oxidative hepatorenal damage.