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Therapeutic Effect of Agaricus brasiliensis on Phenylhydrazine-Induced Neonatal Jaundice in Rats

Summary

This research investigated how an extract from the medicinal mushroom Agaricus brasiliensis could help treat newborn jaundice, a common condition affecting most newborns. The study found that the mushroom extract safely reduced elevated bilirubin levels in baby rats without causing liver damage, suggesting it could be a natural alternative to current treatments. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides a potential natural treatment option for newborn jaundice • Offers an alternative for regions without access to conventional phototherapy • Demonstrates a safer treatment method without side effects • Could reduce hospital stays and treatment costs for families • Shows promise for developing new infant care products

Background

Neonatal jaundice occurs in over 60% of newborns during their first week of life due to abrupt cessation of bilirubin clearance by the placenta and temporary deficiency in hepatic bilirubin processing. Current standard treatment involves phototherapy, which may not be available in many countries and could increase risk of bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity.

Objective

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of Agaricus brasiliensis extract (ABE) in treating phenylhydrazine-induced neonatal jaundice in rats and propose a more effective and safer treatment option.

Results

ABE treatment dose-dependently reduced elevated bilirubin levels induced by phenylhydrazine, supported by in vitro bilirubin degradation experiments. The extract also reduced total antioxidant status, cascade O2−/SOD, NF-κB protein levels, and adrenomedullin without causing hepatotoxicity. The treatment showed no adverse effects on liver function as measured by ALT and AST levels.

Conclusion

Agaricus brasiliensis extract effectively prevented progression of phenylhydrazine-induced neonatal jaundice through multiple mechanisms including bilirubin clearance, reduced oxidative stress, and regulation of NF-κB, without causing liver toxicity. The extract shows promise as a potential protective treatment for neonatal jaundice.
  • Published in:BioMed Research International,
  • Study Type:Experimental Animal Study,
  • Source: 10.1155/2015/651218
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