Evaluation of the Protective Activity of Banana, Cassava, and Corn Flours Against Hepatotoxicity Induced by Malnutrition in Male Rats
Background: Malnutrition-induced hepatotoxicity is a serious consequence, leading to liver dysfunction and compromised health. Objectives: This study aims to assess the potential protective effects of banana, cassava, and corn flours against hepatotoxicity induced by malnutrition in male rats. Methods: Male rats were subdivided into six groups: Animals of group 1 control (normal diet), group 2 malnutrition, group 3 malnutrition + normal diet, group 4 malnutrition + banana flour, group 5 malnutrition + cassava flour, group 6 malnutrition + corn flour. The malnutrition groups were subjected to a diet deficient in protein for 15 days. After the experimental period, parameters of serum liver enzyme levels of AST/ALT, and histopathological analysis were evaluated to determine hepatotoxicity and potential protective effects. Results: Our results showed that malnutrition increased the level of serum AST (P<0.05), decreased the level of ALT, and histopathological changes, indicative of liver damage. In contrast, treatment with flour of banana, cassava, and corn exhibited amelioration and demonstrated protective activity by returning AST and ALT enzymes to normal levels, and improved liver histology. Conclusions: this study underscores the hepatoprotective potential of banana, cassava, and corn flours against malnutrition-induced hepatotoxicity in male rats, due to containing bioactive such as antioxidants, which mitigate oxidative stress, and restore liver function. Further investigations are warranted to explore the applicability of these plants as a dietary intervention for hepatoprotection in malnutrition populations.
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