Abstract
Quercetin (Q) is a bioflavonoid widely distributed in vegetables, beverages and fruits and it is increasingly utilized in medical applications. Acrylamide (AC) is found in foods that had been heated over long periods over 120 degrees C. Therefore, the study was aimed to investigate the effect of Q on oxidative stress induced by AC on the liver of rats. Wistar male rats (n = 40) weighing between 150-200 g were divided randomly into four groups: control that was given physiological saline (1 mg/kg), group was treated with AC (25 mg/Kg), group treated with Q (75 mg/Kg) and the last group was treated with combination of AC and Q, respectively. All substances were given orally for 30 consecutive days. At the end of the study, the liver was homogenized for measurement of the oxidative stress status and anti-inflammatory biomarkers as well as histological alterations. Results showed that the antioxidant enzymes activity and glutathione levels were significantly decreased in AC groups than control group. However, malondialdehyde level was significantly increased in AC groups than the control group. The liver indicated no evidence of alteration in oxidative status, anti-inflammatory and morphological parameters in Q treated group. The AC and Q treated animals showed a restoration in the hepatic structures than the damage in AC group, showed Central vein with mild inflammatory cells aggregations and mild fatty change. In conclusion, AC caused oxidative stress and inflammation on liver after 30 days of exposure that supported histological analysis of hepatic parenchymal cells. Q act as a potent hepato-protective against AC.