ABSTRACT
Various mechanisms are involved in the process of ethanol-induced tissue impairment. Oxidative stress and its effects are among the most important. In this study, the mechanism of action of Nigella sativa seeds [N. sativa] against ethanol-induced liver damage was examined. LA total of 60 healthy male rats were randomly divided into four experimental groups [15 animal each]. A control group received only distilled water [D.W] for 4 weeks. N. sativa treated group received No. sativa seeds suspension orally in a dose of 500 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks. Ethanol treated group received ethanol 20% [7 ml] orally daily for 4 weeks. Ethanol-N. sativa treated group received both ethanol and N. sativa simultaneously daily for 4 weeks. In ethanol treated group, histopathological examination revealed degenerative changes in hepatic tissue. Also, ethanol caused significant increase in the serum activities of transaminases [ALT, AST] and alkaline phosphatase [ALP] enzymes. Also, a significant increase of free radicals [lipid peroxide products] and a significant decrease of antioxidant [total glutathione] levels in serum and liver tissue were observed in ethanol treated rats as compared to control. Concomitant administration of N. sativa seeds. Along with ethanol decreased degenerative changes in liver tissue, prevented the leakage of enzymes into the circulation, decreased free radicals generation and restored total glutathione levels nearly to normal. This emphases the protective role of N. sativa seeds against ethanol-induced liver damage. In conclusion, ethanol-induced liver damage was associated with oxidative stress, and co-administration of N. sativa seeds attenuates this damage effectively in rat model through decreasing free radicals production and increase antioxidant defense system activity