Biochemical and Histoarchitectural Evaluation of Amaranthus Hybridus on Amlodipine-Induced Hepatoxicity in Wistar Rats

ABSTRACT Background of Study: Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) remains a significant cause of morbidity, with amlodipine-associated hepatotoxicity being increasingly reported. Amaranthus hybridus, a widely consumed leafy vegetable with antioxidant properties, has shown promise in mitigating liver damage. This study evaluates the biochemical and histoarchitectural effects of Amaranthus hybridus in Wistar rats subjected to amlodipine-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: Twenty-five Wistar rats were divided into six groups: control, low amlodipine-only (100 mg/kg), low amlodipine +high Amaranthus hybridus extract (200 mg/kg), Amaranthus hybridus extract-only, high amlodipine, and high amatanthus hybridus+ low amlpdipine. Amlodipine-induced hepatotoxicity was achieved through oral administration for 35 days. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured as markers of liver function. Histological evaluation of liver tissues was conducted to assess structural integrity and damage. Results/Discussion: Amaranthus hybridus significantly reduced ALT and AST levels compared to the amlodipine-only group, indicating improved liver function. Histological analysis revealed reduced hepatocellular degeneration, preservation of hepatic architecture, and decreased inflammatory cell infiltration in Amaranthus hybridus and amlodipine treated groups. The findings suggest that Amaranthus hybridus exhibits hepatoprotective effects comparable to or exceeding those of Amlodipine, likely due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Conclusion: Amaranthus hybridus demonstrated significant biochemical and histoarchitectural protective effects against amlodipine-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. This study underscores the potential of Amaranthus hybridus as an affordable, natural hepatoprotective agent. Further studies are necessary to explore its mechanisms of action and clinical applicability.