Modulatory Impact of Ebselen against Diethylnitrosamine Initiated Hepato carcinogenesis in Rats

Seleno-compounds have gained a significant consideration due to their efficiency as chemotherapeutic agents. The aim of the current work was to elucidate the impact of Ebselen on Diethylnitrosamine-initiated hepato carcinogenesis in male albino rats. Hepatocellular carcinoma was initiated with oral supplementation of diethylnitrosamine (DEN] (15 mg/ kg body-weight) for 2 months. Ebselen (5 mg/ kg body-weight) was orally given to rats for 2 months after DEN-administration. Biochemical analysis includes assessment of liver functions (ALT and AST activities), kidney functions (urea and creatinine), determination of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in liver tissues [oxidative stress markers], alfa-fetoprotein (AFP) (tumor marker), besides Bcl₂ expression and caspase-3 activities (apoptotic markers). The level of some essential trace elements (iron, zinc, copper, calcium and manganese) was also measured. The results revealed the powerful capacity of ebselen in minimizing the changes induced by DEN verified by significant increment in the level of hepatic antioxidant GSH accompanied by a marked decline in MDA concentration (marker of lipid peroxidation). Also, ebselen-treatment decreases ALT and AST activities, urea and creatinine concentrations. The increase of AFP, Bcl₂ and the decrease of caspase-3 were less marked. The increase of Fe, Ca and Cu, the decrease of Zn and Mn were improved, compared to DEN-group. Histopathological examinations of hepatocyte cells were in accordance with the biochemical results confirming the potential role of ebselen in minimizing DNE-induced damage. Ebselen-treatment improved the harmful impacts initiated by DEN as it is an effective antioxidant and scavenger of free toxic radicals