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Inonotus obliquus aqueous extract prevents histopathological alterations in liver induced by environmental toxicant Microcystin

Summary

This research shows that Chaga mushroom extract can protect the liver from damage caused by microcystin, a toxic chemical produced by cyanobacteria in water. When mice were exposed to microcystin, their livers became damaged, but treating them with Chaga mushroom extract restored normal liver function and prevented cell death. The study suggests Chaga mushroom could be used as a natural supplement to prevent liver toxicity from environmental pollutants.

Background

Microcystins are environmental toxicants produced by cyanobacteria that cause hepatotoxicity in mammals. Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) has been reported for antibacterial, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. This study investigates the hepatoprotective potential of Inonotus obliquus aqueous extract against microcystin-induced liver damage.

Objective

To assess the effect of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) on liver histopathology in mice and evaluate the preventive potential of Inonotus obliquus aqueous extract (IOAE) through histological and biochemical analysis.

Results

MC-LR significantly reduced body weight, increased liver enzymes (1.9-fold SGOT, 1.7-fold SGPT, 2.2-fold LDH), decreased GSH and catalase levels, and induced hepatic degenerative changes and apoptosis. IOAE treatment restored body weight, normalized enzyme levels, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, prevented histopathological alterations, and reduced caspase-3 expression. IC50 for MC-LR was calculated at 3.6 μg/ml in hepatocytes.

Conclusion

MC-LR induces hepatotoxicity through oxidative stress generation and caspase-3 mediated apoptosis. Inonotus obliquus aqueous extract effectively prevents MC-LR induced liver injury through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, suggesting its potential as a natural hepatoprotective supplement.
  • Published in:Current Research in Pharmacology and Drug Discovery,
  • Study Type:In vivo and in vitro experimental study,
  • Source: PMC9389225, PMID: 35992377
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