Riboceine Regimen Circumvents Reserpine-Induced Hepatotoxicity via the Modulation of Key Liver Function Markers in Adult Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Reserpine, an antipsychotic and antihypertensive medication, has been associated with liver damage and dysfunction. The present study examined the potential hepatoprotective effect of a riboceine regimen against reserpine-induced hepatotoxicity in adult male Wistar rats. A total of twenty-five adult male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups: The following combinations were administered: control, Reserpine, Reserpine + Citalopram, Reserpine + Riboceine, and Reserpine + Citalopram + Riboceine. Liver function markers, including alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), were analysed in serum samples in order to assess liver health. Furthermore, a histopathological examination of the liver tissue was conducted to visualise any morphological changes. Serum levels of ALT and AST increased significantly in rats administered reserpine in isolation in comparison with the control group, indicating hepatocellular damage. Conversely, the Riboceine + Reserpine group demonstrated a substantial decrease in ALT and AST levels in comparison to the Reserpine group, thereby indicating a protective effect of riboceine against reserpine-induced hepatotoxicity. No significant difference was observed in the serum level of ALP across the experimental groups. Histopathological examination confirmed the attenuated liver injury in the Riboceine + Reserpine group, with a reduction in necrotic areas and inflammation compared to the Reserpine group. The findings indicate that a riboceine regimen effectively circumvents reserpine-induced hepatotoxicity in adult male Wistar rats. The modulation of key liver function markers, in conjunction with histopathological evidence, substantiates the hepatoprotective role of riboceine in mitigating liver damage induced by reserpine. This study offers a number of promising insights into the potential therapeutic use of riboceine as a hepatoprotective agent. It could therefore be beneficial for patients undergoing treatment with reserpine or similar medications.