Ameliorating and anti-inflammatory role of Balanites aegyptiaca aqueous extract on Doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats

Background and objective Doxorubicin (Doxo) is an antibiotic that used in cancer treatment, with many complications like hepatotoxicity. The objective of this study was to explore the ameliorative effect of Balanites aegyptiaca aqueous extract (BAE) against Doxo-induced hepatotoxicity in male rats. Materials and methods Adult male Wistar rats (140–160 g) were randomly divided into six groups (10 animals each) as follows: group I, normal rats act as a control group; group II, rats ingested with BAE (200 mg/kg) for 4 weeks; group III, rats intoxicated (intraperitoneal) with Doxo (0.5 mg/kg) for 4 weeks; group IV, rats ingested with BAE in combination with Doxo injection for 4 weeks; group V, rats ingested with BAE for 4 weeks before Doxo injection for another 4 weeks; and group VI, rats ingested with BAE for 4 weeks after Doxo injection. Results The results revealed all BAE regimens succeeded to decrease the hepatotoxicity induced by Doxo. This was evidenced by the significant reduction of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-1beta levels, as well as hepatic malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels. Moreover, a marked increase was observed in serum protein and albumin levels, as well as hepatic-reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase values. The obvious histopathological regenerations came in line with both serum and tissue biochemical findings. The Doxo-BAE combined regimen exhibited the highest potential of amelioration. Conclusion As a promising supplement, BAE exhibited hepatoprotective potential against Doxo-induced hepatic injuries; this could be mechanized through its antioxidant and radical scavenging exhibition of its bioactive constituents.