Biomedical Research

Background: Anabolic androgenic steroids are synthetic derivatives of the male sex hormone Testosterone (TE). Androgens and anabolic steroids have been used for therapeutic purposes and have been widely used among adolescents for body-building purposes, with no consideration as to its adverse effects. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of exposure to a high dose of testosterone on the liver and assess the hepatoprotective potency of the Vitis vinifera (VT) seed extract against testosterone-induced hepatotoxicity.

Methods: Thirty-two male BALB/C mice were assigned to four groups: control, TE, VT, and TE+VT. Liver functions tests, lipid profile, and antioxidants parameters were evaluated to assess hepatotoxicity and histopathological analysis was performed to explain the direct effects of TE and VT on hepatic tissue.

Results: The high dose of testosterone exhibited serious hepatotoxic effects, with disturbance of the lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein) and antioxidative balance. The high content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds in the VT seeds demonstrated excellent antioxidant and antihepatotoxic activity. More importantly, a histopathological analysis confirmed the defensive role of VT for hepatocytes and all hepatic constituents against the toxic storm caused by testosterone.

Conclusion: Accordingly, VT demonstrated protective and restorative effects against testosterone hepatotoxicity and could be a promising new antihepatotoxic agent. Therefore, it is recommended that VT should be administered during the use of or treatment with testosterone.

Author(s): Hani M. Abdelsalam
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