Vinpocetine Attenuates Experimental Hepatic Cirrhosis Through Modulating Inflammatory and Fibrogenic Signaling Pathways

Background: Liver cirrhosis has become a global issue that could threaten people all over the world. Different etiologies and chemicals can induce liver cirrhosis, such as Thioacetamide (TAA). Vinpocetine (Vinpo) is considered a cerebrovascular drug because it has both anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties. The present study aims to explore the relieving impact of Vinpo against TAA-induced liver cirrhosis in Wistar rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats were treated with Vinpo at two different doses (10 and 20 mg/kg) orally, concurrently with TAA injection (200 mg/kg i.p twice weekly) for 12 weeks. Liver enzymes were measured in serum, while histopathological staining with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) was done in hepatic tissue homogenate. Results: Vinpo significantly reduced liver enzymes in serum (GPT and GOT), aligning with the regression of interlobular fibrous connective tissue proliferation compared to the TAA group. Conclusion: Vinpo could be used as an innovative therapeutic agent against TAA-induced liver cirrhosis via its antifibrotic, antiproliferative properties.