What is it about?
The protective effects of Houttuynia cordata (chameleon tree) aqueous extract (HCAE) against acetaminophen (Tylenol)-induced hepatotoxicity in mice were examined.
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Why is it important?
Houttuynia cordata is traditionally used as a medicinal plant in Asia countries including China, Taiwan, Japan and Thailand. Previous studies suggest that HCAE may provide nutritional benefit for liver. However, it remains unknown that HCAE could protect liver against acetaminophen-induced oxidative and inflammatory damage. The purpose of this animal study was to examine the protective effects of Houttuynia cordata aqueous extract on liver of acetaminophen treated mice. The influence of this extract on CYP2E1 activity, associated antioxidant enzymes activities, and cytokines were also evaluated.
Perspectives
Acetaminophen is the primary pain-relief agent in many medications but taking too much is bad for the liver. Acetaminophen overdose is a leading cause of acute liver. As the most common drug ingredient in the United States, acetaminophen is found in more than 600 prescription and over-the-counter drugs. In the US, about 1,600 cases of acute liver failure occur each year due to acetaminophen overuse.
Mei-chin Yin
Asia University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Protective effects from Houttuynia cordata aqueous extract against acetaminophen-induced liver injury, BioMedicine, March 2014, EDP Sciences,
DOI: 10.7603/s40681-014-0005-2.
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