The Effect of Crocin on the Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 Genes in the Liver Tissue of Cadmium-Treated Rats: A Short Report

One of the causes of liver cancer is the heavy metal cadmium. Crocin is a compound with antioxidant properties. This study aimed to investigate the effect of crocin on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 (MMP2 and MMP9) genes in cadmium-induced liver cancer in rats.

In this experimental study, 40 female rats were randomly divided into four groups: Control; Crocin (15 mg/kg); Cadmium (20 mg/kg); Crocin±cadmium. After 8 weeks of daily treating by gavage, the liver tissue was removed to evaluate gene expression by Real-Time PCR. Data were analyzed by One-way ANOVA.

The results revealed that cadmium consumption increases the expression of MMP2 and MMP9 genes in the liver tissue (p<0.001). Crocin   significantly reduced the expression of both genes in the liver tissue (p<0.001).

Crocin can reduce the raising effect of cadmium on the expression of MMP2 and MMP9 in the liver tissue.