Potential Protective Effects of Blackberry and Quercetin on Sodium Fluoride-inducedImpaired Hepato-renal Biomarkers, Sex Hormones and Hematotoxicity in Male Rats

Aim: The present study was carried out to evaluate the potential protective role of blackberry juice (BBJ) and quercetin (Q) against sodium fluoride-induced liver damage and impairment of kidney function, as well as hematotoxicity in rats.

Study Design: After 2 weeks of acclimation, animals were divided into seven groups, ten rats each. All the groups were treated interaperitoneal (i.p.) for 30 successive days. Group 1 served as untreated control and received 1ml/Kg of distilled water i.p. daily. Group 2 was given i.p. BBJ at a dose of 1.6g/kgb.wt. containing 5mg anthocyanin. Group 3 was given quercetin at dose of 75mg/Kgb.wt. Group 4 was treated with 10.3mg/kg b.wt of NaF. Group 5 was given i.p. BBJ followed by NaF at the same doses. Group 6 was given quercetin followed by NaF and finally group 7 was treated with BBJ and Q then followed by NaF as mentioned previous doses.

Methodology: Some hematological parameters were determined. Serum aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activities were as well as lipid profile and total protein were evaluated as biomarkers for liver functions. The levels of uric acid and creatinine in serum were estimated. Hormones of testosterone and inhibin B were assessed.

Results: Sodium fluoride (NaF) caused an elevation in serum transaminases and alkaline phosphatase and reduced serum total protein, testosterone, and inhibin-B levels as well as levels of uric acid and creatinine, and induced hematotoxicity. It increased all the parameters of lipid profile except the high density lipoprotein cholesterol level was decreased. The presence of Q or BBJ with NaF successfully mitigated liver and kidney functions, which was more pronounced with Q.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that concomitant administration of Q or BBJ with NaF may be useful in reversing the toxicity of NaF in male rats.