Crocin mitigates γ-rays-induced hepatic toxicity in rats.

Crocin (C₄₄H₆₄O₂₄) is an isolated bioactive molecule of saffron extract. It has different pharmacological effects such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In the present study, radioprotective property of crocin was investigated in the rat liver. Thirty-two rats were equally divided into four groups: (1) control (normal saline), (2) crocin (200 mg/kg), (3) γ-rays (6Gy), and (4) crocin plus γ-rays-treated groups. The liver histopathology, serum transaminases (ALT and AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and hepatic lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) have been assessed. The histopathological result of hepatic tissue in group 3 showed hydropic degeneration and this progressed to focal or spotty necrosis through the lobule. Moreover, some sinusoids are distended with blood or with leukocytic infiltrations. Other cases in group 3 showed periportal leukocytic infiltrations and necrosis extended out from the portal tract to involve hepatic lobules with fibrinous necrosis in portal vessels, while the examination of hepatic tissues of group 4 showed reduced deformities, irregular arrangement, congested hepatic vessels, and necrosis in hepatocytes. The results also showed significant decreased level of liver function activities, inflammatory markers, lipid peroxidation, and increased levels of liver antioxidants enzymes in group 4. Crocin showed moderate protective effect against γ-rays-induced liver toxicity. The antioxidant effect of crocin may be a major reason for its positive impact on liver parameters. Graphical abstract .