Amelioration of Hepato-Renal Toxicity by a Flavonoid-Rich Fraction of Hibiscus rosa-sinenses (Leaves and Flowers) in Male Rabbits Intoxicated by Cadmium

Abstract

This study was initiated to anticipate the potential protective effects of flavonoid-rich fractions of Hibiscus rosa-sinenses flowers (HF) and leaves (HL) on cadmium (Cd)-induced toxicity in adult albino rabbits. Cd, being a prominent environmental pollutant, poses a threat for its widespread range of toxic expressions. A dramatic increase in total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity has been observed in flavonoid-rich fractions of HF and HL as compared to their crude extracts, suggesting for the rationale for their use in this study. Thirty-six male rabbits were indiscriminately allocated into six groups, including control, Cd (6.1 mg Cd/kg/day), HF and HL (200 mg HF & HL /Kg/day), Cd+HF, and Cd+HL (receiving the same doses of Cd, HF, and HL) groups. Treatment (p.o) for 60 days resulted in improvement of weight gain in Cd+HF and Cd+HL groups in comparison with the Cd group. Treatment with Cd+HF showed better results than Cd+HL by significantly decreasing (p<0.05) transaminases (AST, ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), and creatinine and urea levels, while total bilirubin and albumin were increased on the 15 th , 30 th , 45 th , and 60 th days in a progressive manner when compared with the Cd receiving group. Likewise, the Cd+HF group showed better activities than Cd+HL by significantly increasing (p<0.05) superoxide dismutase, catalase, and vitamins C and E, while LPO and Cd concentrations were significantly decreased in the liver and kidney tissues when compared with Cd-intoxicated bucks.Values of these parameters in only HF and HL-receiving groups were near the control. The histopathological