Protective Role of Curcumin against Hematological Alterations and Hepatic Damage Induced by Gentamicin in Rats

Abstract

Gentamicin (GEN) is considered an aminoglycoside antibiotic which is widely used to treat numerous bacterial infections. It has toxic effect on liver tissue. Curcumin (CMN) is a natural polyphenolic compound with antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory potentials. The current study sought to investigate the effect of CMN in protecting against GEN-induced hematological alterations and hepatotoxicity. Rats were randomly assigned into 4 equal groups: Control, gentamicin group (100 mg/kg b.wt, i.p, daily for seven days), curcumin group (200 mg/kg b.wt, orally for 21 days) and curcumin plus gentamicin group. After 21 days, some hematological and serum biochemical parameters were measured. GEN-intoxicated group showed a marked decline in RBCs count, Hb concentration as well as PCV% with insignificant difference in MCV, MCH and MCHC. Moreover, there were leukopenia, lymphopenia and neutrophilia in GEN group. Concerning to the serum biochemical examination, a substantial increase in the serum activities of ALT, AST and ALP with a marked decline in the total protein, albumin and globulin serum levels were recorded following GEN injection. In addition, there was a marked increase in the cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose serum levels. Improvement in all tested parameters were noticed following concurrent CMN administration with GEN. Based on these results, CMN could be recommended as a treatment strategy for protection against GEN-induced hematological alterations and hepatic injury.