The Protective Effect of Ginkgo Biloba Extract on CCl4-induced Hepatic Damage

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
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FROM:   Acta Physiol Hung 1997-98;   85 (3):   277–85

Ozenirler S, Dincer S, Akyol G, Ozogul C, Oz E

Department of Gastroenterology, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Besevler, Ankara, Turkey

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on CCl4–induced hepatic damage in rats. Hepatic malondialdehyde, glutathione and hydroxyproline levels and histopathologic alterations in liver specimens were assessed. 200 mg/kg/day Ginkgo biloba extract were given orally to the animals for 10 days, then a single dose of 2 ml/kg b.w. carbon tetrachloride was, administered intraperitoneally. Ginkgo biloba extract treatment reduced hepatic malondialdehyde levels significantly (p < 0.05), but did not alter glutathione (p > 0.05) and hydroxyproline levels (p > 0.05). The light and electron microscopic findings showed that Ginkgo biloba extract limited the CCl4–induced hepatocyte necrosis and atrophy. These results suggest that this extract may protect the hepatocytes from carbon tetrachloride–induced liver injury.

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