Effects of magnesium sulfate on atherogenic indices in cholestatic male rats using Bile duct ligation method

Cholestasis is defined as a decrease in bile flow due to impaired secretion by hepatocytes or to obstruction of bile flow through intra or extrahepatic bile ducts that leads to retention of bile acids, bilirubin and cholesterol. Magnesium, the second most abundant intracellular cation, plays an essential physiological role in many functions of the body. The aim of this study was evaluating the effects of magnesium sulfate on atherogenic indices in cholestatic male Wistar rats. In this experimental study, 81 male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into 9 groups. Bile duct ligation was done by standard method. MgSo4 (0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 g/kg bw) was administered intragastrically, once a day, for 28 consecutive days. Serum samples were collected and serum lipid profile was measured using standard methods. Then atherogenic indices were calculated. Cholestasis led to a significant increase in atherogenic indices and treatment of cholestatic rats with magnesium sulfate significantly reduced atherogenic indices.Magnesium sulfate may improve serum lipid profile and reduce atherogenic indices in cholestatic rats by reducing oxidative stress and increasing the activity of enzymes involved in the metabolism of lipoproteins.