The Protective Effects of Silymarin on D-Galactosamine/Tumor Necrosis FactorAlpha-Induced Oxidative Stress and Lung Injury in Mice

Abstract

Silymarin (Sm) is known for its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antimitoticactivities against a broad range of cancers, such as prostate, colon, ovarian, skinand lung cancer. This study targets to determine the protective effects of Sm on lungdamage in the mice exposed to D-galactosamine (D-GaIN)/tumour necrosis factor alpha(TNF-?). For this purpose, three groups of Balb/c mice were used. The study groupswere given saline (0.5 mL), D-GalN/TNF-a, and D-GaIN/TNF-? plus Sm, respectively.Our biochemistry, apoptotic markers and light microscopic findings offer that Sm cannoticeably diminish D-GaIN/TNF?-induced pulmonary toxicity. In conclusion, Smimproves degenerative alterations in injured lung owing to D-GalN/TNF-a. This caringeffect might be thanks to the capability of Sm to keep oxidant–antioxidant stability.