Abstract
Objectives Rubus sanctus Schreb., known from the Bible as 'holy thorn bush', grows wild in Egypt. Rubus sanctus aqueous alcoholic extract (RE) contains a complicated phenolic mixture (ellagitanins, flavonoids and caffeic acid derivatives). In this study, the phytochemical investigation of the plant was re-evaluated. Herein, we report on the isolation and identification of three galloylated flavonoids, namely kaempferol-3-O-(6 ''-O-galloyl)-C-4(1)-beta-D-galactopyranoside, quercetin-3-O-(6 ''-O-galloyl)-C-4(1)-beta-D-galactopyranoside and myricetin-3-O-(6 ''-O-galloyl)-C-4(1)-beta-D-galactopyranoside for the first time from the Rubus genus. We further aimed at evaluating the potential protective effects of RE against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced toxicity in isolated rat hepatocytes.
Methods Based on an initial concentration-response experiment, a concentration of 100 mu g/ml was selected to investigate the hepatoprotective activity of RE.
Key findings Pretreatment with RE afforded protection as indicated by counteracting CCl4-induced cell death, and reduced glutathione depletion. In addition, RE ameliorated CCl4-induced enzyme leakage by 40% for lactate dehydrogenase, 30% for alanine aminotransferase and 20% for aspartate aminotransferase as compared with CCl4-treated cells. Moreover, RE counteracted CCl4-induced lipid peroxidation and inhibited spontaneous lipid peroxidation in the control group.
Conclusions In conclusion, RE protects against CCl4-induced toxicity in isolated rat hepatocytes.