Hepatoprotective Effects of Rheum turkestanicum Janisch on High-fat Diet-induced Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Mice

Background Consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) is one of the main causes of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is increasing due to lifestyle changes and is still an important global health issue. Despite the efforts, there is still no common treatment for this disease. Studies have shown that the root of Rheum turkestanicum Janisch has a hypolipidemic effect and a significant antioxidant effect on liver tissue in diabetic rats. However, no experimental study has been performed on the hepatoprotective effects of this herb on HFD-induced NAFLD have been proven. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Rheum turkestanicum Janisch extract (RTE) on HFD-induced NAFLD in BALB/c mice. Materials and Methods The study was performed with two models of prevention and therapeutic effect of RTE. Serum biochemical markers, histopathology, oxidative stress indicators, and qRT-PCR were measured to evaluate the effects of RTE on lipid metabolism disorders in mice feeding with HFD. Results In the prevention model, compared to the HFD group, RTE treatment decreased the levels of glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol and improved liver profile markers, oxidative stress, and expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that RTE has hepatoprotective effects against HFD-induced liver damage by reducing oxidative stress, lipogenesis, and increasing beta-oxidation of free fatty acids.