Effect of Tinospora crispa on Liver Cirrhosis in Rats
Author Information
Author(s): Kadir Farkaad A. Othman, Faizah Abdulla Mahmood, Hussan Farida Hassandarvish, Pouya
Primary Institution: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hypothesis
This study was conducted to determine the effect of ethanolic extract of the dried stems of Tinospora crispa in a male rat model of hepatic fibrosis caused by the hepatotoxin, thioacetamide.
Conclusion
The study confirms that complete reliance on data obtained using in vitro methodologies may lead to erroneous conclusions pertaining to the safety of phytopharmaceuticals.
Supporting Evidence
- The study showed significant elevation in liver enzymes and bilirubin levels in TAA-treated rats.
- Histopathological analysis revealed hepatocyte degeneration and necrosis in TAA-treated groups.
- The extract of T. crispa was found to potentiate the hepatotoxic effects of thioacetamide.
Takeaway
This study found that a plant called Tinospora crispa can actually make liver problems worse in rats instead of helping them, which is surprising because it was thought to be good for health.
Methodology
Rats were divided into five groups and treated with different doses of T. crispa extract and thioacetamide, followed by biochemical and histological assessments.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the reliance on a single animal model and the specific doses used.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on male rats, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other populations.
Participant Demographics
Fifty male SD (Sprague Dawley) rats weighing 150-270 g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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