Hepatoprotective Effect of Nettle Root Extract (Urtica dioica) on Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticle-Stimulated Hepatotoxicity in Male Albino Rats

Background: Nettle roots (Urtica dioica) are considered promising plants for treating different conditions, including liver ailments. Accordingly, we aimed to ascertain the protective implication of aqueous extract of nettle roots versus hepatotoxicity in male albino rats exposed to TiO2 NPs. Methods: Here, 48 adult male albino Wistar rats were randomly allocated to six groups (8 rats/group). The first group operated as controls. The second and third groups were administered U. dioica (100, 200 mg/kg b.w) orally. The fourth group was orally administrated TiO2 NPs (300 mg/kg b.w). The fifth and sixth groups were treated orally with (U. dioica 100, 200+ TiO2 NPs). After four weeks, biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations of the blood samples and liver tissue were carried out. Result: The outcomes manifested that exposure to TiO2 NPs significantly increased ALT, AST, ALP, LDH and MDA, total protein and bilirubin, whereas albumin levels, SOD and GSH decreased significantly, causing liver tissue damage. In addition to higher expression of caspase 3. U. dioica treatment improved the physiological, histological and immunohistochemical results of damage caused by exposure to TiO2 NPs. This study shows that chronic administration of U. dioica protects against TiO2 NPs-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. These positive effects may appear because U. dioica contains antioxidants.