Hepatic Fibrosis-Induced by Sodium Nitrate in Rats Fed on Moringa oleifera Leaves

Liver fibrosis is a pathological process that can progress to liver failure if left untreated. Moringa oleifera (NO) is known as ‘miracle tree’ or ‘tree of life’ due to its therapeutic and nutritional benefits. MO exhibit powerful antioxidant properties, which may reduce fibrosis expression. The aim of this study is to show the effect of MO leaf powder (MOLP) against the hepatic fibrosis induced by sodium nitrate (NaNO3). Five groups of rats were put together. G I: rats fed on normal diet for 6 weeks; G II: rats fed on 10% of MOLP mixed with diet; G III: rats received 500 mg/L of NaNO3 daily in drinking water for 6 weeks; G IV: rats received NaNO3 for 3 weeks in drinking water then fed MOLP 10% mixed with diet; and G V: rats fed on 10% MOLP mixed with diet and NaNO3 in drinking water for 6 weeks at the same time. The results showed that TGF-β1 and α-SMA expression, collagen deposition, apoptosis marker, and DNA fragmentation percentage in liver were increased significantly in NaNO3 group. On the other hand, these parameters were significantly decreased with MOLP treatment. In conclusion, MOLP may protect and treat hepatic fibrosis induced by NaNO3.