Protective Effects of Apamin on Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose can cause severe liver damage, but therapeutic options are limited. Apamin is a natural peptide present in bee venom and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Accumulating evidence suggests that apamin has favorable actions in rodent models of inflammatory disorders. Here, we examined the effect of apamin on APAP-evoked hepatotoxicity. Intraperitoneal administration of apamin (0.1 mg/kg) alleviated histological abnormalities and reduced serum levels of liver enzymes in mice injected with APAP. Apamin inhibited oxidative stress through an increase in the amount of glutathione and activation of the antioxidant system. Apamin also attenuated apoptosis with inhibition of caspase-3 activation. Moreover, apamin reduced serum and hepatic levels of cytokines in APAP-injected mice. These effects were accompanied by suppression of NF-?B activation. Furthermore, apamin inhibited chemokine expression and inflammatory cell infiltration. Our results suggest that apamin dampens APAP-evoked hepatotoxicity through inhibiting oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation.

Automated summary

This study found that apamin, a natural peptide present in bee venom, exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. By increasing glutathione levels and activating the antioxidant system, apamin alleviated caspase-3 activation, reduced cytokine levels, and suppressed NF-κB activation. Furthermore, apamin inhibited chemokine expression and inflammatory cell infiltration, thus attenuating acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity.