Effect of Melissa officinalis extract and Diazinon interaction on liver tissue and its enzymes alteration in male rats

Background and Aims: Diazinon is an organophosphorus poison and insecticide that negatively affects the environment and human health.Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is one of the plants that is consumed and has antioxidant compounds.This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of lemon balm in diazinontreated rats. Materials and Methods:The aerial parts extract of Melissa officinalis was prepared using the maceration method.A total of 56 male Wistar rats were divided into control, sham, diazinon-received (30 mg/kg), lemon balm-received (50 and 100 mg/kg), and diazinon and lemon balm-received groups.All injections were done intraperitoneally for 30 days.The level of alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase was measured by ELISA.After killing the animals, liver tissue was also stained with hematoxylin-eosin and observed by a light microscope.Results: Diazinon caused a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase and the number of Kupffer cells compared to the control group (P<0.05).In the diazinon and Melissa officinalis extract receiving group, the level of these enzymes and Kupffer cells decreased compared to the diazinon group (P<0.05).Diazinon decreased the number of hepatocytes compared to the control group(P<0.05).Moreover, in the diazinon and Melissa officinalis extract receiving group, the number of hepatocytes increased compared to the diazinon group (P<0.05). Conclusion:Lemon balm extract improved the effects of diazinon on the liver of mice receiving diazinon.