Cytoprotective effect of Semecarpus anacardium against toxicity induced by Streptozotocin in rats

Jaya Aseervatham¹, Shanthi Palanivelu², Panchanadham Sachdanandam^1
1Department of Medical Biochemistry, ²Department of Pathology, Dr ALM Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, India

Abstract: Leakage of cellular enzymes into the plasma is a clear indication of cell damage. When liver plasma membrane is damaged, a variety of enzymes normally located in the cytosol are released into the blood stream and their estimation is a quantitative marker for the extent of damage. The cytoprotective effect of Semecarpus anacardium was evaluated in rats that were rendered diabetic by administration of streptozotocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight. The activities of the marker enzymes were assayed in the serum, liver and kidney. The indicators of renal damage such as urea, uric acid and creatinine were assayed in addition to the blood profile. The results of the present study reveal that Semecarpus anacardium was able to reverse the levels of the marker enzymes, and protect the kidney by reverting back to the normal levels of urea, uric acid, and creatinine. The abnormal blood parameters were also reverted to near normal levels indicating the drug’s cytoprotective effect.

Keywords: marker enzymes, Semecarpus anacardium, blood profile, cytoprotective effect