Modulation of ERK/AKT, inflammatory cytokines, and apoptotic signaling by Salvia splendens leaf extract in atorvastatin-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar albino rats

In this study, the hepatoprotective potential of Salvia splendens (S. splendens) leaf extract against atorvastatin-induced liver toxicity in Wistar albino rats was evaluated. Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups: a negative control group, a positive control group receiving atorvastatin (20 mg/kg/day), a standard treatment group receiving atorvastatin with silymarin (200 mg/kg/day), and an herbal treatment group receiving atorvastatin with S. splendens extract (200 mg/kg/day). Treatments were administered for 14 d. At the end of the experiment, blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical, hematological, and histopathological analyses. Atorvastatin administration caused a significant reduction in body weight gain and a marked increase in liver and renal function marker levels, along with increased oxidative stress. Compared with treatment with silymarin, treatment with S. splendens extract significantly improved body weight gain, restored the antioxidant status, and reduced the increase in liver enzymes. Histopathological findings supported the biochemical results, as hepatic damage was reduced in the treated groups. These findings suggest that S. splendens possesses significant hepatoprotective activity and may serve as a potential natural therapeutic agent against drug-induced liver injury. Graphical Abstract