Impact of winter savory extract (Satureja montana L.) on biochemical parameters in serum and oxidative status of liver with application of the principal component analysis in extraction solvent selection

B. Milijašević, M. Steinbach, M. Mikov, A. Rašković, I. Čapo, J. Živković, I. Borišev, J. Ćanji Panić, B. Teofilović, M. Vujćić, M. Lalić-Popović

Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia. boris.milijasevic@mf.uns.ac.rs

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• Phytomedicine

OBJECTIVE: Satureja montana L. is traditionally used as spice and for treatment various diseases. Many studies have shown antioxidative effect of Satureja species. Our thorough study in an animal model was performed through measurement of biochemical parameters in the serum, histology analysis and determination of oxidative status of the liver, coupled with investigation of extraction solvent selection using principal component analysis (PCA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Winter savory dry extract (500 mg/kg) dispersion and saline solution were given to Wistar rats for 7 days after exposure to oxidative stress using toxic doses of paracetamol (600 mg/kg). Rats were sacrificed, after which a complete autopsy was performed, the blood obtained was used to determine biochemical parameters, and the liver was sliced for histological analysis and determination of oxidative stress enzymes.

RESULTS: Indicators of hepatic and kidney functions, as well as the concentration of oxidative stress enzymes, were statistically significantly lower in animals treated with Satureja montana L. extract compared to the paracetamol group alone before the toxic dose of paracetamol. Liver enzymes were unaltered by pre-treatment with the extract, but the level of lipid peroxidase was decreased, and the level of catalase, glutathione reductase and superoxide dismutase increased proving in vivo antioxidant effect. In addition, the number of inflammatory cells is decreased coupled with activity of CYP2E1 enzymes proving hepatoprotective effect.

CONCLUSIONS: Satureja montana L. extract in our research has shown hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effect. PCA analyses indicated that extraction mediums have a great impact on the antioxidative effect.

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