Modulation of Lysosomal Enzymes Activity in Hepatoprotection by Silymarin in Carbon Tetrachloride Vapour Induced Liver Damage in Rats

Abstract:

Silymarin as a potent antioxidant has been appreciated for enhancing liver function. Inhalation of carbon tetrachloride (CCl ) vapours twice a 4 week for 12 consecutive weeks led to liver cirrhosis in experimental rats with significant increase in the “free” and decrease in “total” activities of lysosomal enzymes, viz; N-acetyl glucosaminidase (NAG), â-glucuronidase (â- glc) and acid phosphatase. Pretreatment with silymarin (250mg/kg) prior to CCl inhalation resulted in significant (p<0.01) decrease in “free” and increase in “total” activities of lysosomal enzymes and 4 significant decrease in serum transaminases [alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)], alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and bilirubin. These findings suggest that silymarin acts as hepatoprotective by providing stability to lysosomal membrane and prevents its leakage by increasing the ratio of total/free activity of lysosomal enzymes.

Keywords: silymarin, carbon tetrachloride, lysosomal enzymes, hepatoprotective.