Authors : Elias Adikwu, Ruth O. Owota and Innocent Biradee
Abstract: Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Efavirenz (TLE) is a first-line agent used for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Its use has decreased HIV progression, but the occurrence of hepatotoxicity is a serious burden. Curcumin (CUM) is a polyphenol compound which has potential therapeutic health benefits. This study assessed its protective effect against TLE-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Forty adult male Wistar rats (180-200 g) grouped into 8 of n = 5 were used. Group I (Control) was orally administered with normal saline (0.2 mL) daily. Groups II-IV were orally administered with CUM (50, 100 and 200 mg kg–1) daily. Group V was orally administered with TLE (300/300/600) mg kg–1. Groups V1-VIII; were orally administered with CUM (50, 100 and 200 mg kg–1) before the administration of TLE (300/300/600) mg kg–1 daily. The rats were treated for 30 days. After treatment, the rats were anesthetized and blood samples were collected and assessed for serum liver function markers. Liver samples were excised and assessed for oxidative stress markers and histology. Serum aminotransferases, bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase alkaline phosphase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, liver malondialdehyde levels and liver weight were significantly (p<0.001) increased in TLE administered rats when compared to control. Body weight, liver catalase, glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase and GSH peroxidase levels were significantly (p<0.001) decreased in TLE-treated rats when compared to control. TLE caused hepatocytes necrosis. Interestingly, CUM supplementation abrogate TLE-induced hepatotoxicity at 50 mg kg–1 (p<0.05), 100 mg kg–1 (p<0.01) and 200 mg kg–1 (p<0.001) when compared to TLE. CUM may clinically prevent TLE related hepatotoxicity.
Elias Adikwu, Ruth O. Owota and Innocent Biradee, 2021. Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Efavirenz-Induced Hepatotoxicity: Cucurmin as a Potential Protective Agent. Research Journal of Biological Sciences, 16: 1-8.