The effect of ginger extract on histopathological changes of the liver and ALT, AST and ALK enzymes in azathioprine treated rats

Azathioprine has a large application in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and in organ transplant. Results of studies indicate the adverse effects of this medicine on the liver structure and function. Ginger is a medicinal plant with strong antioxidant properties and protective effects against various toxins. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ginger extract on liver changes induced by azathioprine in rats. In this experimental study, 56 adult male rats were divided into 7 groups of 8:1- control (ordinary water and food) 2- Sham (distilled water as a solvent) 3- azathioprine (15 mg / kg) 4- hydroalcoholic extract of ginger (200 mg / kg) 4- Ginger extract hydro-alcoholic (200 mg / kg) 5- Azathioprine (15 mg / kg) with ginger extract (50 mg / kg), 6- Azathioprine (15 mg / kg) with ginger extract (100 mg / Kg) 7- Azathioprine (15 mg / kg) with ginger extract (50 mg / kg). On the 21st day after the start of the experiment and after weighing the animals, blood samples were taken from their hearts and serum concentrations of ALT, AST, ALP were measured. Renal tissue was separated and tissue sections were prepared. Zinger hydroalcoholic extract could protect the liver tissue and reduce the severity of azathioprine degradation effects on liver tissue. The hydroalcoholic extract of ginger had a protective effect on liver tissue due to its antioxidant properties by inhibiting free radicals produced by azathioprine and the extract also decreases the severity of azathioprine degradation effects on liver tissues.