Garlic exerts hepatoprotective effects during 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide-induced oral carcinogenesis in rats.

The modifying effects of garlic (Allium sativum Linn.) on hepatic lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status during 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO)-induced oral carcinogenesis were investigated in male Wistar rats. Enhanced lipid peroxidation in the liver of tumour-bearing animals was accompanied by significant decreases in the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. Administration of aqueous garlic extract significantly lowered lipid peroxidation and enhanced the levels of hepatic antioxidants and detoxifying enzymes. The results of the present study suggest that garlic exerts its hepatoprotective effects by influencing hepatic biotransformation enzymes and antioxidants.