Protective effect of diphenylmethyl selenocyanate against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in vivo
Das, R.Kumar.; Das, S.; Bhattacharya, S.
Journal of Environmental Pathology Toxicology and Oncology Official Organ of the International Society for Environmental Toxicology and Cancer 23(4): 287-296
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0731-8898 PMID: 15511216 Document Number: 568020
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a known hepatotoxic compound working through the generation of reactive free radicals. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element required by animals and humans for protection against xenobiotic compounds. In this study, Se, as diphenylmethyl selenocyanate, has been evaluated for its protective action against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss albino mice. Treatment with Se compound was found to upregulate different phase II detoxifying enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutases, reduced glutathione, and glutathione transferase) in liver of mice challenged with different doses of CCl4 as compared to the CCl4 control, when measured after 24 hours of CCl4 treatment (p < 0.01). The Se compound also significantly (p < 0.01) inhibited the level of membrane lipid peroxidation and serum transferase activity (ALT and AST) in the treated group as compared to the control group.