Efficiency of Water Kumquat (Fortunella margarita) Extracts Against Hepatotoxicity Induced by Carbendazim in Vitro and In Vivo

Objective: The study aims to evaluate the efficiency of water kumquat (Fortunella margarita) extracts in mitigating hepatotoxicity induced by carbendazim (CBZ), a broad-spectrum fungicide, both in vitro and in vivo. Methods: In vitro, HepG2 liver cancer cells were exposed to CBZ to determine the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) and assess the protective effects of kumquat water extracts. In vivo, 48 healthy male albino Sprague Dawley rats were divided into two main groups: a negative control group and a CBZ intoxication group. The CBZ group was further subdivided to receive varying concentrations of hot or cold water kumquat extracts. Liver functions were evaluated through biochemical assays, while histopathological examinations assessed tissue damage. Results: Kumquat water extracts exhibited significant hepatoprotective effects. In vitro, kumquat extracts improved cell viability and reduced oxidative stress markers compared to CBZ-treated cells. In vivo, treatment with kumquat extracts led to reduced levels of liver enzymes, improved antioxidant status, and minimized histopathological damage in CBZ-exposed rats. The protective effects were dose-dependent, with higher concentrations of kumquat extracts showing more effectiveness and benefits. Conclusion: Kumquat water extracts demonstrate considerable potential in protecting against CBZ-induced liver toxicity. These investigations suggest that kumquat extracts could serve as a natural therapeutic option for preventing or mitigating liver damage caused by pesticide exposure.