Effect of Catechin on Hepatotoxicity Induced by Combined Doxorubicin and Paclitaxel Treatment

Chemotherapy‐induced hepatotoxicity remains a significant challenge in cancer treatment, limiting the clinical use of potent anticancer agents like doxorubicin (DOX) and paclitaxel (PAC). This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of catechin (CAT), a natural flavonoid antioxidant, against DOX‐ and PAC‐induced liver toxicity. Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, DOX + PAC‐treated, CAT‐only, and two groups receiving CAT (20 or 40 mg/kg) in combination with DOX + PAC. Hepatic function was assessed through liver enzyme levels, oxidative stress biomarkers, and histopathological examination. Results showed that DOX + PAC treatment significantly elevated serum levels of ALT, AST, and ALP, indicating hepatocellular damage. Oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), were also increased, while antioxidant defenses such as glutathione (GSH) and catalase were depleted. CAT coadministration, particularly at 40 mg/kg, markedly reduced oxidative damage, restored hepatic enzyme levels, and mitigated histopathological alterations, including congestion, hepatocyte degeneration, and inflammatory infiltration. Moreover, CAT reduced NF‐κB expression, suggesting an anti‐inflammatory effect. These findings demonstrate that CAT effectively protects against DOX‐ and PAC‐induced hepatotoxicity by enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms and reducing inflammation. Given its hepatoprotective potential, CAT may serve as a complementary therapeutic strategy to enhance chemotherapy tolerance.