The ethanolic extract of Aframomum angustifolium seeds protects against tamoxifen-induced side effects in rats with breast cancer

Long-term use of tamoxifen (TAM) is associated with severe side effects. The present study aimed at evaluating the protective effect of the ethanolic extract of Aframomum angustifolium seeds (EEAA) against some adverse effects of TAM in female Wistar rats with 7,12-dimethybenz-(a)-anthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer. Breast cancer was induced through the subcutaneous administration of 50 mg/kg, bw of DMBA while normal rats constituted the control group. Twelve weeks later, breast cancer rats were randomised 5 per group and treated or not with 3.3 mg/kg, bw of tamoxifen alone, or tamoxifen plus either 150 or 300 mg/kg, bw of EEAA during 28 days, after which all animals were sacrificed under anaesthesia. The effects of the treatment on the uterus, body weight, lipid profile, liver and kidneys were evaluated. The EEAA at 300 mg/kg, bw significantly prevented tamoxifen-induced uterus’s hyperplasia by reducing serum estradiol level from 896.85 ± 54.57 (tamox alone) to 639.81 ± 43.41 pg/L. The extract at both doses prevented metabolic disturbance by increasing body weight, lowering triglyceride and total cholesterol levels and also prevented lipids accumulation in the liver. Catalase activity and TBARS levels were ameliorated (p < 0.05) in the liver and kidneys leading to the improvement of the integrity of these organs. Also, an amelioration of plasmatic activities of transaminases alkaline phosphatase and uric acid levels was noted. The ethanolic extract of Aframomum angustifolium seeds can be considered a potential source of bioactive compounds for the management of the side effects of TAM among breast cancer patients.