Monosodium Glutamate Induced Hepatotoxicity and the Possible Mitigating Effect of Vitamin C and Propolis

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) has been recognized as a relish additive that adversely affects liver function's parameters. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of MSG on the liver enzyme markers, lipid profile and antioxidant system and also speculated the ameliorating effects of Vitamin.C (Vit.C) and propolis in the rat liver tissues. Mature male rats (weighing 150-200 g and each group of seven animals) were given MSG (60 mg/Kg) and/or Vit.C (200 mg/Kg) and/or Propolis (200 mg/Kg) extract daily via gavage for 4 weeks. In the present study, MSG exposure resulted in an increase in the TBARS level and a decrease in the SOD, CAT, GPX activities in liver homogenates, with respect to the control. Supplementations of Vit.C and/or propolis to MSG treated group induced decrement in the level of MDA, increased SOD, CAT, GPX activities. As a result, MSG afforded hepatotoxicity, which is reduced by administration of Vit.C and/or propolis to a great amplitude by the entire recovery of the liver function markers and the antioxidant status.