Cardioprotective effect of Malva verticillata against doxorubicin -induced toxicity in rats

Abstract

Abstract Background M. verticillata (Malvaceae) is a medicinal plant used in the treatment of wounds, boils, and liver injuries. The plant leaf extracts possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of various cancers, but its clinical use is limited by acute and chronic cardiotoxicity. This study aims to evaluate the possible cardioprotective role of Malva verticillata against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Method Thirty-six male albino rats were divided into six groups, (n = 6): G1: normal control (was given 1 ml/kg of NaCl, 0.9%, twice a week IP), G2: cardiotoxic group (was given 1 mg/kg of DOX twice a week IP). G3 and G4 were given 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of M. verticillata, respectively, while G5 and G6: were given 250, 500 mg/kg of M. verticillata PO and 1 mg/kg IP of DOX. for 6 weeks. Total body weight was taken weekly and Heart: body weight ratio was calculated. Blood samples were collected for determination of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and Troponin, the hearts were removed and processed for histopathological examination. Results M. verticillata showed a significant dose-dependent reduction in the cardiac enzyme levels, LDH, CPK activities, and Troponin levels. The histopathological studies in rat hearts also supported those findings. Conclusion The present study suggests that M. verticillata may have a novel and worthwhile cardioprotective effect against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

Keywords

• Cardioprotective
• Malva verticillata
• Doxorubicin
• Cardiac enzymes