The protective role of silymarin against methotrexate-induced gastrointestinal injury

Abstract

The protective effect of silymarin was investigated against methotrexate-induced GI injury. Forty Swiss-Albino mice were divided into 4 groups as control (Normal saline), methotrexate (15 mg/kg), silymarin (100 mg/kg) and methotrexate+silymarin (100 mg/kg + 15 mg/kg respectively). Blood and tissue samples were collected from the animals for biochemical and pathological examinations. Plasma, intestinal and gastric tissue malondialdehyde and TSA levels in methotrexate group were significantly higher than in control whereas whole blood glutathione concentration was lower in methotraxe group than in control. Plasma, intestinal and gastric TSA levels in methotrexate group were significantly increased compared to control and methotrexate+silymarin groups. Gastric tissue of methotrexate treated mice showed degeneration, necrosis, desquamation and widespread edema. However, these alterations were less severe in methotrexate+silymarin group. In conclusion, silymarin could be of therapeutic value against methotrexate-induced GI injury.