Biochemical and histological assessment of the hepatoprotective effects of Bryophyllum pinnatum leaf extract in Ketamine-induced liver toxicity in male Wistar rats

Background & Aims: Ketamine, a commonly used anesthetic and recreational drug, can induce liver toxicity through oxidative stress and hepatocellular damage. Bryophyllum pinnatum, traditionally used for liver-related ailments due to its hepatoprotective properties, has shown potential but remains underexplored for ketamine-induced toxicity. This study investigated the effects of B. pinnatum leaf extract on liver function biomarkers and histopathology in ketamine-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Materials & Methods: Sixty male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: normal control, ketamine-induced group (20 mg/kg, negative control), positive control (0.5 mg/kg risperidone), and three B. pinnatum-treated groups (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg). Serum levels of AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, and total protein were assessed, alongside histological analysis of liver tissues using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Statistical significance (p < 0.05) was determined using ANOVA and Dunnett’s post-hoc test. Results: Ketamine significantly elevated liver enzyme levels (AST: 65.00 ± 2.89 U/L, ALT: 60.00 ± 2.89 U/L, ALP: 85.00 ± 2.89 U/L, GGT: 78.10 ± 3.09 U/L) and reduced total protein (6.07 ± 0.47 g/dL) compared to controls (AST: 27.67 ± 1.45 U/L, ALT: 22.33 ± 1.45 U/L, ALP: 37.67 ± 1.45 U/L, GGT: 34.27 ± 2.55 U/L; total protein: 7.40 ± 0.12 g/dL). Treatment with B. pinnatum normalized these biomarkers, with the 200 mg/kg dose showing the most significant effects (AST: 21.00 ± 2.08 U/L, ALT: 20.00 ± 5.77 U/L, ALP: 22.00 ± 3.06 U/L, GGT: 26.01 ± 3.11 U/L, total protein: 7.80 ± 0.12 g/dL). Histological findings indicated ketamine-induced hepatocyte damage was ameliorated by B. pinnatum in a dose-dependent manner, with marked improvements at 200 mg/kg. Conclusion: B. pinnatum extract exhibits promising hepatoprotective effects against ketamine-induced liver toxicity, as evidenced by normalization of liver biomarkers and histological recovery. These preliminary findings in an animal model highlight its potential for therapeutic applications in liver disorders, warranting further investigation.