The Potential Chemotherapeutic Effect of Coenzyme Q10 against Liver Injury in a Leukemia Rat Model by 7,12-dimethylbenzanthracene; histological and morphometric study

Abstract

Introduction: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential cofactor in the mitochondrial electron transport chain that benefits liver disorders. The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]-anthracene (DMBA) originates and promotes carcinogenesis. This study investigated the potential anti-leukemic effects of CoQ10 in a DMBA-induced leukemic rat model. The biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical analysis of the liver was assessed to determine that CoQ10 would modify liver injury caused by DMBA-induced Leukemia in rat model. Methods Forty adult male albino rats were split equally into four groups: control group (Group I), coenzyme Q10 group (Group II), DMBA group (Group III), and coenzyme Q10 plus DMBA group (Group IV). The first DMBA dose of 40 mg/kg body weight produced leukaemia in all rats except GI and GII rats. Three further injections were given at a rate of 30 mg/kg body weight every two weeks for a total of 6 weeks. Body weight and blood samples were evaluated once the experiment was complete. Biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical, and morphometric analyses were performed on liver tissue. Results CoQ10 treatment significantly reduced liver enzyme levels relative to leukemia-model animals. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were much lower in CoQ10 group compared to DMBA group, whereas glutathione (GSH) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were significantly increased. Histopathological examination of rat DMBA livers revealed a loss of normal hepatic architecture, which was restored after administration of CoQ10. Conclusion Treatment with CoQ10 attenuated the alleviation of DMBA-induced leukemia in rats, claiming its potential as an effective therapy for leukaemia and liver impairment caused by leukaemia.