Therapeutic potential of Aronia melanocarpa in the prevention of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in rats

Introduction: Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive and life-threatening condition frequently associated with chemotherapeutic agents, such as bleomycin (BLE). Aronia melanocarpa extract (AME), a potent antioxidant derived from black chokeberry, has shown promising anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in various pre-clinical models. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the protective and therapeutic effects of AME in a rat model of BLE-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Methods: A total of 60 rats were divided into six groups: control, fibrosis (BLE only), positive control (BLE + methylprednisolone), AME-only, AME + BLE (AME administered concurrently with BLE), and BLE + AME (AME administered after fibrosis induction). Lung tissues were analyzed histologically and biochemically for inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress markers. Results: AME administration significantly reduced alveolar wall thickening, hemorrhage, cellular infiltration, and collagen deposition. These effects were more pronounced in the AME + BLE group, indicating a potential prophylactic advantage. In addition, AME restored antioxidant enzyme levels and suppressed lipid peroxidation. Conclusion: AME exhibits both preventive and therapeutic effects against BLE-induced lung injury. Its polyphenol-rich composition and antioxidative properties support its potential as a low-cost, low-toxicity candidate in pulmonary fibrosis management.