Proliferative effect of the aqueous extract of Hyptis pectinata on liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in rats1 Efeito do extrato aquoso da Hyptis pectinata na regeneração hepática após hepatectomia parcial em ratos

Purpose: This study was carried out to assess the effects of the aqueous extract of Hyptis pectinata leaves on liver regeneration and on serum enzymes (AST, ALT and γ-GT) after 67% partial hepatectomy in rats. Methods: AST, ALT and γ-GT, were determined by conventional procedures using a spectrophotometer (Model E2250-CELM). Liver regeneration was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Results:Oral pretreatment during 4 days at 100 mg/kg increased liver regeneration index. At 200 mg/kg, AST level was statistically decreased in comparison to the group submited to distilled water administration. The other enzymes assessed disclosed no difference when all groups were compared. Conclusion: The present study shows that the aqueous extract of Hyptis pectinata leaves contains some biological active principles that stimulate liver regeneration at 100 mg/kg and cause slight hepatic protection at 200 mg/kg.