Effects of Imatinib on Rat Liver

Abstract

Aim:Imatinib is a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor that’s used as an anticancer drug. In this study, evaluation the effects of different doses of imatinib on liver ultrastructurally and biochemically was aimed.Methods:200-250 g, 8-12 weeks old, 30 mature male Wistar rats were used. Rats were divided in 5 groups; 10, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg imatinib daily were administered by gavage during 21 days to the experimental groups respectively. Fifth group was control; saline was given. Serum levels of liver transaminases, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase were examined, morphological effects were investigated via electron microscopy.Results:In 10 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg imatinib applied experimental groups, the nuclear and cytoplasmic structures, sinusoidal and perisinusoidal areas were similar to the control group. In 100 mg/kg imatinib applied group cytoplasmic density was increased, lytic areas and lipid accumulation in cytoplasm of some hepatocytes were seen. In 200 mg/kg imatinib applied experimental group lytic changes and lipid accumulation were prominent.Conclusion:It is concluded that, protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib may cause dose related degenerative changes in the liver, and liver functions should be monitored in patients during treatment.

Keywords

• imatinib
• liver
• ultrastructure