Effect of Nigella sativa oil on the hamster lymphocytes secondary to DMBA-induced carcinogenesis

ABSTRACT

This study was designed to evaluate the possible role of Nigella sativa L. [NS] oil, as immuno-stimulatory agent against DMBA-induced hamster buccal pouch [HBP] carcinogenesis. This study was carried-out on eighty-five male golden Syrian hamsters divided into nine main groups. In animals of DMBA-treated groups, the left buccal pouches were painted with 0.5% DMBA, 3 times/week. Animals of NS-treated groups were given 5 mgs /day of NS oil orally. Other groups were given both NS and DMBA at the same time, 3 times/week. Before animals sacrificing, blood samples were withdrawn from the orbital sinus. Both buccal pouches were surgically excised, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formaline, and processed for H and E stain. Topical application of DMBA in HBP induced immunosuppression through reduction of lymphocytes production and produced different grades of epithelial dysplasia. Administration of NS oil, significantly enhanced the immune system through increased lymphocytes production, and inhibited development of advanced dysplastic changes. These findings suggest that NS oil is a potential retarding agent of DMBA-induced HBP carcinogenesis possibly through enhancing the cell-mediated immune system