The Protective Effects of Curcumin Oil and Flaxseed Oil on Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity in Male Albino Rats

Abstract

Background: Cisplatin, while potent against cancer, causes significant nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.

Objective: To investigate the protective effects of curcumin and flaxseed oil against cisplatin-induced toxicity.

Materials and Methods: Animal models (rats) were divided into four groups: a control group, a cisplatin-alone group (single dose of 7.5  mg/kg i.p. on day six), a curcumin group, and a flaxseed oil group (0.1 ml/1 kg orally for ten days with a cisplatin dose on day six). Liver  and kidney functions were assessed by measuring serum (alanine transaminase) ALT, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea, and  creatinine levels. Protein metabolism was evaluated by measuring total protein, albumin, and globulin levels, and the albumin/globulin  ratio, followed by histological examination of liver and kidney biopsies.

Results: Cisplatin significantly increased ALT, AST, urea, and  creatinine levels indicating severe liver and kidney damage (p < 0.001). It also decreased total protein, albumin, and globulin levels,  impairing protein metabolism (p < 0.001). Co-administration of curcumin or flaxseed with cisplatin significantly reduced ALT, AST, urea,  and creatinine levels, while improving total protein, albumin, and globulin levels and improved histological results compared to the cisplatin-alone group.

Conclusion: Curcumin and flaxseed effectively mitigated cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and disturbances in protein metabolism. Thus, they could be potential adjuvant therapies in cisplatin chemotherapy to reduce its side effects.