The effect of curcumin on altered expression of BAX and BCL2 genes following cholestasis in the frontal region of male rats

Background: Cholestasis occurs as a result of malfunction or secretion of bile; and complications of this disease include apoptosis (planned death). Curcumin is an effective extract of turmeric rhizome that has anti-apoptosis properties. Thus in this study, we investigated the expression of BAX and BCL2 genes following cholestasis and curcumin in the frontal region of male rats. Materials and methods: This study was performed on 16 male rats weighing 220-240 gram in which they were divided into 4 groups, including control group, sham-curcumin, BDL group and BDL-curcumin. Then peripheral region of rats was collected and after extraction of RNA and cDNA synthesis, expression of genes in different groups was evaluated by Real Time PCR technique. Results: BCL2 gene expression decreased in the BDL group compared to the control group(p<0.05), and BAX gene expression increased in the BDL group compared to the control group as a result,the cell progresses to apoptosis. However,with the injection of curcumin,the expression of BCL2 gene in the BDL-Curcumin group increased compared the BDL group and BAX gene expression decreased  in the BDL-Curcumin compared to the BDL group. Conclusion: Curcumin can increase the expression of BCL2 gene and decrease the expression of BAX gene in the frontal region,reduce the negative effects of cholestasis including apoptosis.