Chemoprotection Against N-Methyl-N′-Nitro-N-Nitrosoguanidine-Induced Oxidative Stress by S-Allylcysteine, a Garlic Constituent, in Wistar Rats

Author： Velmurugan B. Subapriya R. Nagini S.

Publisher： Informa Healthcare

ISSN： 1537-6524

Source： Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, Vol.13, Iss.2, 2003-04, pp. : 83-87

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Abstract

S-allylcysteine (SAC), a water-soluble garlic constituent, was tested for its protective effect against N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG)-induced oxidative stress in male Wistar rats. Three different concentrations of SAC (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg⁻¹ body weight) were administered intragastrically for 5 consecutive days, followed by intragastric intubation of MNNG 1½ h after the final administration. Measurement of lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in the stomach, liver, and erythrocytes was used to monitor the chemoprotective effects of SAC. Enhanced lipid peroxidation in MNNG-treated rats was accompanied by a significant decrease in glutathione and in the activities of GPx and GST. Administration of SAC at the concentration of 200 and 400 mg/kg⁻¹ body weight significantly reduced the concentration of lipid peroxides and enhanced the levels of GSH-dependent antioxidants and detoxifying enzymes. Our findings suggest that SAC exerts chemoprotective effects, even at a concentration of 200 mg/kg⁻¹ body weight, against MNNG-induced oxidative stress by decreasing lipid peroxidation and enhancing the antioxidant status.