The effect of native and modified lingonberry leaf extracts (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) on the state of free radical oxidation processes under conditions of paracetamol-induced hepatitis in rats

One of the most frequently used over-the-counter drugs in the world is paracetamol (N-acetyl-para-aminophenol or acetaminophen). This drug is widely used for the symptomatic treatment of headache, muscle, joint, dental, and menstrual pain, as well as an antipyretic agent for acute respiratory infections, etc. However, prolonged use of paracetamol or its use in high doses can lead to the development of hepatitis and acute liver failure. For the prevention and therapy of such liver injuries, acetylcysteine is often used, in addition to hepatoprotectors, including those of plant origin. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of native and L-arginine-modified thick extracts of cowberry leaves on the state of the antioxidant system under conditions of acute paracetamol-induced hepatitis in rats. It was established that the application of native thick and L-arginine-modified cowberry leaf extracts significantly (p≤0.05) reduces the level of 8-isoprostane, increases the pool of reduced glutathione, decreases the level of oxidized glutathione, and also increases catalase activities. Regarding the effect on reducing the level of 8-isoprostane, the L-arginine-modified cowberry leaf extract significantly outperformed the effect of the comparison drugs, Silibor and Argiclin. Regarding the effect on the parameters of the glutathione system and catalase, the efficacy of the L-arginine-modified cowberry leaf extract significantly (p≤0.05) exceeded the effect of the comparison drugs, Silibor and Argiclin. Evidently, the hepatoprotective properties of the extracts are due to the complex effect of the sum of catechins, hydroquinone derivatives, hydroxycinnamic acids, and flavonoids, which possess antioxidant and cytoprotective properties. The obtained data indicate the prospects for further in-depth studies of the hepatoprotective action of the L-arginine-modified thick extract of cowberry leaves.