ABSTRACT

Background & aim: Some  natural  and synthetic compounds have antioxidant properties which protect the liver tissue against  toxins  such as lead. they also plays an important role in reducing the harmful effects of heavy metals and pesticides. The aim of this experimental study is to investigate the protective effects of Tragopogon pratensis leaves extract (TPE) in male rats. 

Methods: In this study 36 male Wistar rats weighing 220±250g  were randomly divided into six groups: control group, toxicant group received 0.5g/L lead acetate in tap water, treatment groups (1,2 and 3: received 0.5gr/L lead acetate in tap water and 200,400,800 mg/kg TPE ) respectively. positive control received 400mg/kg TPE gavaged . At the end of examination the blood samples were collected and liver enzymes, total protein, albumin, MDA, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin were analyzed. The data were analyzed by SPSS software and one-way ANOVA and Tukey´s test.

Results: Serum levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP) increased significantly in the acetate group compared with the control group (P<0.001).The serum levels of albumin and total proteins were reduced and MDA was increased significantly compared with control group (P<0.001). The serum levels of liver enzymes were reduced significantly in treatment groups compared with toxicant group (P≤0.001).

Conclusion: The effective ingredients in Tragopogon pratensis extract  are probably due to the presence of antioxidant compounds reduce the production of released radicals which can stabilize the membrane of the hepatocyte membrane and reduce the release of liver enzymes in the blood.