Protective Effect of Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) Extract Against 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Abstract

Background The anticancer agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) exerts its cytotoxic effects partly through inhibition of thymidylate synthase and disruption of nucleic acid metabolism. However, treatment-related toxicities, including hepatotoxicity, can limit its clinical use. Beetroot (BR), Beta vulgaris L., is rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may protect against oxidative tissue injury. This study evaluated the protective effect of beetroot extract against 5-FU-induced hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. Methods Twenty-eight male albino rats were randomly allocated to four groups (n = 7 per group): control, BR, 5-FU, and 5-FU plus BR. BR extract (500 mg/kg) was administered orally once daily for 21 days, whereas 5-FU (50 mg/kg/day) was administered intraperitoneally on days 17 to 21. Blood samples were collected for assessment of serum liver biomarkers, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, total protein and albu-min. Liver tissues were examined for hepatic oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced gluta-thione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, as well as histopathological changes. Results Compared with the control group, 5-FU significantly increased serum ALT, AST, ALP, and total bilirubin, while de-creasing serum total protein and albumin. In liver tissue, 5-FU significantly increased MDA and decreased GSH and SOD activi-ty. Co-administration of BR extract significantly attenuated these biochemical and oxidative stress alterations and was associ-ated with preservation of hepatic histological architecture compared with 5-FU treatment alone. Conclusion BR has a protective effect against 5-FU-induced hepatotoxicity, potentially attributed to its antioxidant proper-ties. Further investigation of its potential hepatoprotective effects and underlying mechanisms in humans is recommended.