The potential protective effect of stevia rebaudiana on dexamethasone-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in rats: Role of PPAR-α

Background: Currently, using medicinal herbs has a great interest in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study evaluated the impact of stevia on the hallmark signs of dexamethasone-induced NAFLD in rats. Methods: Group I: Negative control rats received 2 ml of vehicle carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC). Group II: Rats received dexamethasone 8 mg/kg/day intraperitoneal for 6 days. Group III: Rats received oral stevia extract 400 mg/kg/day for 12 days. Group IV: Rats received dexamethasone + stevia extract. Serum ALT, AST, TC, TG and adiponectin were measured. MDA, GPx and TNF-α were estimated in liver homogenate. Histopathological changes and PPAR-α expressions in the liver were evaluated. Results: Dexamethasone caused a reduction in GPx and ADP levels with an elevation in ALT, AST, TC, TG, MDA and TNF-α. There was a decrease in immunostaining expression of liver PPAR-α. Stevia caused an improvement in liver enzymes, lipid profile, oxidative stress, TNF-α and adiponectin levels. Conclusion: Stevia provided some protection against dexamethasone-induced NAFLD.