Hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of Ephedra alata extract against bifenthrin-induced liver toxicity in rats

Protective effects of Ephedra alata against bifenthrin toxicity

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying effects of Ephedra alata extract (EAE) against bifenthrin-induced hepatotoxicity. Adult male rats (180–220 g) were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10) and treated orally for 30 days: (1) control; (2) EAE (120 mg/kg/day); (3) bifenthrin (8 mg/kg/day); and (4) EAE administered one hour prior to bifenthrin exposure. Bifenthrin significantly increased serum biomarkers of liver injury (LDH, ASAT, and ALAT), pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IFN-γ), caspase-3 activity, and oxidative stress markers (NO and MDA), while markedly decreasing antioxidant defenses (GSH, SOD, CAT, and GPx) compared to controls. Pre-treatment with EAE significantly restored these parameters toward normal levels and improved hepatic histoarchitecture. These findings indicate that Ephedra alata extract exerts potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and detoxifying effects against bifenthrin-induced liver injury.