Therapeutic potential of beta-caryophyllene against aflatoxin B1-Induced liver toxicity: biochemical and molecular insights in rats

Aflatoxin B-1 (AFB(1)) is a mycotoxin highly toxic and carcinogenic to humans due to its potential to induce oxidative stress. The Beta-caryophyllene (BCP) have been highlighted for its broad spectrum of pharmacological effects. The present study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of BCP against the susceptibility of hepatic and renal tissues to AFB(1) toxicity, in biochemical parameters to assess organ function, tissue oxidation, and the immunocontent of oxidative and inflammatory proteins. Male Wistar rats was exposed to AFB(1) (250 mu g/kg, i.g.) and/or BCP (100 mg/kg, i.p.) for 14 successive days. It was found that exposure to AFB(1) did not change the measured renal toxicity parameters. Also, AFB(1) increased liver injury biomarkers (gamma glutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase) and reduced levels of non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses (ascorbic acid and non-protein thiol), however did not cause changes in the lipid peroxidation levels. Moreover, AFB(1) interfered in oxidative pathway regulated by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein (Keap1)/nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2) -like 2 (Nrf2), overacting Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) activity. Lastly, a main effect of AFB(1) on the total interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 beta) was observed. Remarkably, the associated treatment of AFB(1) + BCP improved altered liver parameters. In addition, BCP and AFB(1) + BCP groups showed an increase in the levels of inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit beta (IKK beta). Thus, these results indicated that BCP has potential protective effect against AFB(1) induced hepatotoxicity.