Quercetin Ameliorates Hepatic Structure and Function, Alleviate Testicular Damage and Mitigate Oxidative Stress Induced by Monosodium Glutamate in Male Rats

Quercetin (QUR) is a potent free radical scavenging agent and possess potent antioxidant and protective effects. Monosodium glutamate (MOSG) is a well-known flavor enhancer that has side effects on many organs and tissues as recorded in many literatures. The current study aims to evaluate the antioxidant , hepatoprotective and testicular protective effects of QUR on oxidative stress, hepatotoxicity and testicular damage induced by MOSG. Methods: Totally, 40 male albino rats were involved in the study and were divided into 4 groups: 1st control group with normal saline, 2nd group treated with MOSG, 3rd group treated with QUR, 4th treated group treated with combination of MOSG and QUR. Antioxidant biomarkers SOD, GPx, CAT, MPO,XO and MDA,SH and PC were evaluated in the hepatic tissues. Testosterone, inhibin-B and 8-OHDG which is a marker of DNA damage were examined in serum samples. Testes and liver tissues were studied and scored for the different histological alterations as key indicators of testicular and hepatic injury after MOSG administration and it's potent ameliorative and antioxidant effects. Beside, comet assay of the testicular tissues was performed. Results: Administration of QUR plus MOSG increased significantly the enzymatic antioxidants and declined the lipid peroxidation and DNA damage markers as compared with MOSG treated group alone. QUR increased the level of testosterone hormone and improved histological structure of both testis and liver. Conclusion: It is apparent that QUR inhibits hepatic and testicular damage and improves the antioxidant enzyme capacities and alleviate DNA damage in experimental male rats.