Prophylactic effects of wood rot fungus Ganoderma applanatum (Pers.) Pat. against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity

Objectives: The study investigates the role of Ganoderma applanatum (Pers.) Pat. against acetaminophen mediated hepatotoxicity in Swiss albino mice. Materials and Methods: Acetaminophen (150 mg/Kg) was orally administered to the mice followed by the G. applanatum water-alcohol extract (GAWE). The extent of liver impairment was assessed by the blood serum parameter, antioxidant status, and lipid peroxidation assay. The mode of prevention from acetaminophen-induced damage at the molecular level was also analyzed. Results: GAWE administration significantly increased blood serum parameters and a reduction in MDA (Malondialdehyde) levels was observed. Up-regulation of hepatic antioxidant enzymes, such as BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) and COX-2 (Cycloxygenase) gene with the reduction in BAX (BCL2 Associated X, Apoptosis Regulator) mRNA expression was also observed in the GAWE administered group indicating hepatoprotection through hepatocyte regeneration Conclusion: GAWE contains active secondary metabolites with high antioxidant properties which mitigates acetaminophen toxicity and conceivably be relevant for treating hepatic ailments. Further investigations on secondary metabolite composition are solicited.