Hepatorenal Protective Effects of Sesame Seeds Oil, Flaxseed Oil and their Mixture against Methotrexate Toxicity in Rats

Background: Methotrexate (MTX) is an anti-metabolite drug used in the treatment of many cancers and autoimmune diseases. Methods: This study investigated the protective effect of flaxseed oil, sesame seed oil, and their mixture on the MTX-induced hepatorenal toxicity. Thirty rats divided into five groups of: normal control, MTX control, and flaxseed oil, sesame seed oil, and the mixture groups. The oils were administered to rats orally (2 ml/kg) for nine consecutive days followed by a methotrexate injection intraperitoneally (20 mg/kg) on the 9th day. Blood samples, liver and kidney tissues were collected from all rats for biochemical studies and histopathological assessments. The total phenolic content and fatty acid profiles of the oils were also determined. Results: Methotrexate induced hepatorenal toxicity as evident by the histopathological assessments of liver and kidneys, elevation of liver and kidney functions’ biomarkers, and increased plasma and liver oxidative stress associated with a rise in the tumor necrosis factor-alpha, as an inflammatory marker. Administration of flaxseed oil, sesame seed oil or the mixture prevented the MTX-toxicity at varying degrees as shown by reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory response, and improved liver and kidney functions. The mixture was the most efficient treatment associated with the histopathological improvements in the liver and kidney tissue samples, and all biochemical parameters tested. Conclusion: Flaxseed oil, sesame seeds oil and the mixture may be used therapeutically to prevent hepatorenal toxicity induced by MTX. The effect is likely due to the presence of phenolic compounds and polyunsaturated fatty acids in the oils with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.