Icariin Attenuates Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats: Emphasis on Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Pro-Angiogenic Properties

Background and Objective: A gastrointestinal tract disorder called a gastric ulcer is typified by the deterioration of the stomach’s protective lining. Over time, the non-selective NSAID indomethacin (INDO) that is widely used damages the gastric lining, resulting in the development of gastric ulcers. A flavonol glycoside, Icariin (ICA), has certain pharmacological characteristics, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. The present research aimed to examine the protective properties of ICA on rats against stomach ulcers caused by INDO. Materials and Methods: The 5 groups of rats were established. As the Control group: 0.5% sodium carboxymethylcellulose (1 mL per 100 g). INDO group was administered indomethacin at a dosage of 50 mg/kg, the OMEP 30 group received omeprazole at 30 mg/kg, the ICA 25 group was given 25 mg/kg of Icariin, and the ICA 50 group received 50 mg/kg of Icariin, all for a duration of seven days, with the exception of the INDO group. Every group, except the control, received INDO (50 mg/kg) 1 hr after their treatments on the seventh day. Ulcer index, histopathological changes, oxidative stress and inflammatory and angiogenic markers were assessed. Statistical analysis was carried out by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test. Results: The ICA significantly decreased the ulcer index and ameliorated histopathological alterations induced by INDO. Further, ICA exhibited anti-ulcer effect by enhancing the antioxidant enzyme activities, cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels, as well as anti-inflammatory activities by attenuating the rise in Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-κB) concentrations. The ICA also enhanced Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) levels in gastric tissues. Conclusion: The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and angiogenic properties of ICA are responsible for its gastroprotective effects.