Beneficial role of quercetin on echis coloratus snake venom induced hepato-renal toxicity in rats

Abstract

Background: Scientists are exploring the application of new drugs derived from plant sources as an alternative to snakebite anti-venom therapy, which is endowed with several limitations. Naturally produced antioxidants like the flavonoids, which are widely found in the plants are largely consumed in daily diet, at present. Methodology: This study investigates and evaluates the potential effects of some flavonoids (quercetin) on envenoming of albino rats by sub-lethal venom (3.84 mg kg-1, i.p.) doses of Echis coloratus (Ec) viper snake. Beneficial effects of quercetin (30 ĉM kg-1,i.p.) doses on the induced hepato-renal toxicity are assessed by the measurement of selected biomarkers. Results: Sacrificed animals sera and tissues, which were collected for biochemical studies, showed significant increase in the levels of AST, ALT, ALP and creatinine. There was significant histopathological damage of the tissue's architecture and rise in the liver and kidney MDA levels. Conclusion: It is concluded that the reversal effects of modulation of the biochemical parameters and histological damage are attributed to the potential protective effects that ensued after administration of quercetin.