Hepatoprotective Properties of Olive Extract on Methotrexate-Induced Liver Damage

Background and Objective: A common folate antagonist used to treat neoplastic conditions is methotrexate (MTX); the drug’s biotransformation in the liver results in active metabolites that increase hepatotoxicity. Olive leaf extract is one type of antioxidant that may shield our bodies from the damaging effects of free radicals. The current study aimed to assess olive extract’s hepato-protective potential against MTX-induced liver injury in rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four male rats were divided into three groups of eight. The control group received no treatment, the methotrexate (MTX) group was administered a single 20 mg/kg dose of MTX intraperitoneally and the third group received olive leaf extract (1 mL/100 g body weight) daily for one month after the same MTX injection. Serum globulin levels were measured and histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical investigations were performed. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: With a highly significant decrease in mean total proteins and albumin levels and an insignificant decrease in globulin values, the second group showed a highly significant increase in mean total bilirubin and hepatic enzyme levels. Additionally, compared to the control group, this one showed worsened microscopic alterations. In addition to noticeably better microscopical results than the second group, the third group also showed reversed biochemical results. Conclusion: This research found that administering olive extract to individuals receiving methotrexate is important for managing and shielding them from the drug’s serious hepatotoxic side effects.