Use of Arctium lappa Extract Against Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

BACKGROUND Severe destructive hepatic injuries can be induced by acetaminophen overdose and may lead to acute hepatic failure. OBJECTIVE To investigate the ameliorative effects of Arctium lappa root extract on acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity. METHODS Rats were divided into 4 groups: normal control group, Arctium lappa extract group, acetaminophen-injected group, and acetaminophen treated with Arctium lappa extract group. RESULTS The treatment with Arctium lappa extract reduced serum alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase in the acetaminophen group when compared with the control group. DNA fragments in the acetaminophen-injected group were also significantly increased (P < 0.05). The comet assay revealed increased detaching tail length and DNA concentration during the hepatic toxicity in the acetaminophen group. The malondialdehyde content was inhibited by Arctium lappa treatment (12.97±0.89 nmol/mg) when compared with the acetaminophen-treated-only group (12.97±0.89 nmol/mg). Histopathologic examination revealed that acetaminophen administration produced hepatic cell necrosis, infiltrate of lymphocytes, and vacuolation that were associated with the acetaminophen-treated animal group, but the degree of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity was mediated by treatment with Arctium lappa extract. CONCLUSIONS Arctium lappa can prevent most of the hepatic tissue damage caused by acetaminophen overdose in rats.