Investigation of effects of crocin on tamoxifen induced liver damage in rats

Tamoxifen (TAM) is a drug often used in breast cancer chemotherapy and liver damage is among the most common side effects. Crocin (CRO), a bioactive molecule of the saffron plant, has different pharmacological effects such as antioxidant and anticancer activities. This study aimed to evaluate the protective role of CRO against TAM-induced damage in rat liver. In the present study, Wistar Albino female rats were used, TAM 45 mg/kg and different doses of CRO 12.5, 25, 50 mg/kg were administered to rats by oral gavage for 28 days. The damage caused by TAM in the liver tissue and the protective effects of CRO was examined through biochemical and histopathologic methods. It was found that TAM administration increased liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT, ALP and TP), antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT) and MDA levels, but decreased glutathione (GSH) levels and GPx activities, an antioxidant enzyme decreased, as well as TAM administration caused histopathological changes in liver tissue. It was determined that 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg CRO administered together with TAM, reversed these adverse changes. As a result, it was supposed that CRO prevents TAM-induced liver damage by reducing oxidative stress in liver tissues and increasing antioxidant defense. Supporting these data with molecular analyses will make the protective effect of CRO against TAM-induced liver damage even more significant.