The effect of Nigella Sativa extract on Alpha-ketoglutarate activity and histopathologic changes on Rat liver induced by Monosodium glutamate

Abstract

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a commonly used food additive and found in most soups, fish, and processed meat. The use of MSG in food is growing. However, the fear of consuming MSG has increased in the last few years due to the adverse reactions and toxicity in the liver. Nigella sativa (NS) is used as traditional medicine for the treatment of many diseases. It has been extensively investigated in recent years due to its notable pharmacological properties such as inhibit oxidative stress. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of different doses of Nigella Sativa on alpha KGDH activity and liver histology of MSG-induced rats. The animals (n=30) were grouped into A (control), B (treated with MSG 1g/kg.bw), C (treated with MSG 1g/kg.bw and NS 0.1 g/kg.bw), D (treated with MSG 1g/kg.bw and NS 0.2 g/kg.bw), E (treated with MSG 1g/kg.bw and NS 0.4 g/kg.bw) and F (given a daily NS extract 0.2 g/kg.bw). Alpha KGDH activity was investigated using ELISA method and liver histopathology by light microscope. The MSG treatment increased Alpha KGDH activity and disturbed liver architecture, hemorrhage in the central veins, areas of necrosis, vacuolation and increased inflam-matory cells infiltration. The condition was normalized by treatment NS on dose 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg.bw. The findings showed that the administration of MSG increases alpha KGDH and induces damage in liver tissue. Nigella sativa extract can reduce alpha KGDH and prevent liver damage caused by MSG.