Hepatoprotective mechanisms of ginkgo-Biloba and dandelion extracts: antioxidant activity and modulation of TNF-α and P53 pathways in Thioacetamide-induced liver injury.

Liver injuries, especially those induced by chemical toxins and pharmaceuticals, are increasingly prevalent. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effects of and dandelion extracts in a rat model of thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver injury. Twenty-eight male albino rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control, TAA-treated, TAA plus (100 mg/kg), and TAA plus dandelion (500 mg/kg). TAA administration over eight weeks significantly elevated serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT), bilirubin, cholesterol, and triglycerides ( < 0.05) while significantly reducing total protein and albumin levels ( < 0.05). TAA also induced oxidative stress, evident by increased hepatic malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione levels ( < 0.05). Co-treatment with or dandelion extracts significantly ameliorated these biochemical alterations ( < 0.05), with demonstrating slightly stronger effects. Histopathological examination showed reduced necrosis, fibrosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration in treated groups. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed decreased expression of TNF-α and P53 proteins ( < 0.05), indicating anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. These findings suggest that and dandelion extracts confer protective effects against TAA-induced liver damage through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.