Mitigating Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: The Role Of Polyherbal Extracts In Albino Rat Models

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the cardioprotective effects of an ethanolic (50%) extract of a polyherbal mixture containing the leaves of Bryophyllum pinnatum, leaves of Piper betle, and aerial parts of Ocimum sanctum against Doxorubicin-induced heart toxicity in albino rats. The antioxidant properties of this polyherbal extract were assessed using various in vitro methods, including lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide scavenging, DPPH scavenging, and hydroxyl radical activity. Cardiotoxicity was induced in rats through the administration of a cumulative dose of Doxorubicin (15 mg/kg intraperitoneally for 2 weeks). The polyherbal extract was then administered at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight for 15 days. Observations included measurements of serum biomarkers, such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB),  alongside biochemical parameters like aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), total protein.

Histopathological analysis of heart tissues was also performed. The in vitro antioxidant assays demonstrated significant inhibition potential of the polyherbal extract. In the in vivo studies, the administration of Doxorubicin led to substantial cardiotoxicity, as evidenced by elevated levels of biomarkers such as LDH, CK-MB as well as increased AST and ALT levels. However, pretreatment with the polyherbal extract provided notable protection to the myocardium, as indicated by the normalization of these biomarkers and biochemical parameters, along with improved histopathological outcomes. The findings, supported by comprehensive serum biomarker analysis, lipid profiles, biochemical data, and histopathology, suggest that the polyherbal extract offers substantial cardioprotective effects against Doxorubicin-induced heart damage.