Effect of Catechin on Hepatotoxicity Induced by Combined Doxorubicin and Paclitaxel Treatment.

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced hepatotoxicity remains a significant challenge in cancer treatment, limiting the clinical use of potent anticancer agents like doxorubicin (DOX) and paclitaxel (PAC). This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of catechin (CAT), a natural flavonoid antioxidant, against DOX- and PAC-induced liver toxicity. Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, DOX + PAC-treated, CAT-only, and two groups receiving CAT (20 or 40 mg/kg) in combination with DOX + PAC. Hepatic function was assessed through liver enzyme levels, oxidative stress biomarkers, and histopathological examination. Results showed that DOX + PAC treatment significantly elevated serum levels of ALT, AST, and ALP, indicating hepatocellular damage. Oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), were also increased, while antioxidant defenses such as glutathione (GSH) and catalase were depleted. CAT coadministration, particularly at 40 mg/kg, markedly reduced oxidative damage, restored hepatic enzyme levels, and mitigated histopathological alterations, including congestion, hepatocyte degeneration, and inflammatory infiltration. Moreover, CAT reduced NF-κB expression, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect. These findings demonstrate that CAT effectively protects against DOX- and PAC-induced hepatotoxicity by enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms and reducing inflammation. Given its hepatoprotective potential, CAT may serve as a complementary therapeutic strategy to enhance chemotherapy tolerance.