The Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) on Liver Enzymes, Albumin and Total Protein in Adult Male Rats After Receiving Doxorubicin

The use of doxorubicin is limited due to its dose-dependent toxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hydroalcoholic extract of ginger on the levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALK), albumin and total protein in male rats after receiving doxorubicin.

63 adult male rats were divided into 7 groups: Control group, Sham group: received solvent. Experimental group 1 received doxorubicin at a dose of 20 mg / kg and experimental groups 2 and 3 received 300 and 600 mg / kg of hydroalcoholic extract of ginger, experimental groups 4 and 5, doxorubicin received 20 mg / kg + 300 mg / kg of hydroalcoholic extract of ginger and doxorubicin 20mg / kg  + 600 mg / kg of hydroalcoholic extract of ginger, respectively. After the end of the test period, blood samples were collected and serum levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALK), albumin and total protein were measured.

Serum levels of ALT, AST and ALK enzymes in DOX group increased significantly compared to controls and serum levels of albumin and total protein showed a significant decrease. Serum levels of ALT, AST and ALK enzymes in DOX + ZIN300 and DOX + ZIN600 groups decreased significantly compared to DOX group. Serum albumin and total protein levels showed a significant increase compared to the DOX group (P <0.05). Also, serum levels of liver enzymes (ALT, AST and ALK) and biochemical factors (total protein, albumin) in ZIN300 and ZIN600 groups did not change significantly compared to the control group.

Hydroalcoholic extract of ginger may improve liver function after receiving doxorubicin due to its antioxidant properties.