Ameliorating the toxicity induced by L-arginine through iris germanica methanolic extract in an experimental model of acute pancreatitis

This study evaluates the protective effects of Iris germanica (I. germanica) methanolic extract against L-arginine-induced acute pancreatitis in male rats. The extract's antioxidant potential was confirmed by in vitro assays, revealing 30.76 mg/g of phenolics, 15.86 mg/g of flavonoids, and strong antioxidant activity. HPLC analysis identified catechin and chlorogenic acid as major components. In vivo, rats were divided into five groups: control, L-arginine-only, two I. germanica-treated groups (100 and 400 mg/kg), and a melatonin-treated group. L-arginine elevated serum amylase and lipase levels, while I. germanica extract significantly reduced them, particularly at 24 hours post-treatment. The extract also increased total antioxidant capacity and reduced malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase levels dose-dependently. Histological analysis showed decreased pancreatic necrosis and edema in treated groups. However, no significant differences were found in cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10). These findings suggest I. germanica extract may alleviate acute pancreatitis primarily through antioxidant mechanisms.