The protective effect of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

The present study was performed to investigate the protective effect of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (Kolbe) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage and coagulation disturbances in rats, in comparison to silymarin. Rats were orally pre-treated with P. brevitarsis larvae and silymarin at a dose of 300 mg/kg once daily for 5 days, and then a single dose of CCl4 (4 mL/kg i.p.). P. brevitarsis larvae showed significant hepatoprotection by reducing the liver enzymes (AST, ALT and ALP) activity levels that had been raised by CCl4 administration. In addition, P. brevitarsis larvae significantly restored prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) values to nearly silymarin level, which were abnormalized after CCl4 administration. The histopathological results of liver tissues treated with P. brevitarsis larvae supported the serum biochemical results, indicating improved liver functions. The current study showed that P. brevitarsis larvae have potential against CCl4-induced liver damage and coagulation disorders.