Graviola Extract versus Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Therapeutics in Repairing Liver Damage Caused by 2‑Amino-3-Methylimidazo[4, 5‑f]quinoline

TL;DR

This study compares graviola extract and stem cells in treating liver damage caused by a harmful chemical found in cooked foods.

Contribution

The study provides a direct comparison of AD-MSCs and graviola in repairing IQ-induced liver toxicity.

Findings

AD-MSCs significantly reduced DNA damage and oxidative stress markers compared to graviola.

AD-MSCs improved liver histology and reduced fibrosis caused by IQ toxicity.

Graviola showed limited effectiveness in treating chronic liver toxicity.

Abstract

The mutagenic and carcinogenic heterocyclic amine, 2-amino-3-methylimidazo­[4,5-f]­quinoline
(IQ), is produced while cooking protein-rich foods. Mesenchymal stem
cells (MSCs) (as cell-based therapy) and Annona muricata (graviola) (as a natural product) both possess preventive capacities
against free radical toxicity in various tissues. This study aims
to compare the therapeutic properties and effects of AD-MSCs and graviola
on IQ-induced liver toxicity and DNA damage in rats. Sixty adult male
rats were divided into four groups: normal unexposed control, IQ,
IQ + graviola, and IQ + AD-MSCs. After 6 weeks, the rats were sacrificed,
and liver tissues were examined for histopathological changes using
hematoxylin–eosin staining. p53 protein expression was evaluated
by immunohistochemistry, and DNA damage was measured by using the
comet test. Our findings indicated that AD-MSC therapy led to the
most significant improvement in DNA damage, apoptosis, and p53, LPO,
AST, and ALT levels caused by IQ toxicity. Additionally, AD-MSCs reduced
severe histological alterations (damage and fibrosis) in liver cells
induced by IQ. However, the effectiveness of graviola treatment is
limited, severely restricting its use for chronic liver toxicity.
In conclusion, the initial stage of IQ-induced liver toxicity is caused
by oxidative stress-induced DNA damage. Compared with graviola, AD-MSCs
exhibit more potent therapeutic effects against IQ-induced liver damage.

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