Dexamethasone-induced derangement in some liver function parameters: Hepatoprotective effect of L-Citrulline

Abstract

Background: Dexamethasone is not only a potent glucocorticoid with several health benefits but is also associated with severe side effects, one of which is hepatotoxicity. L-Citrulline is known to possess antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antidyslipidemic effects, among others, of which hepatoprotection has not been extensively explored. We aimed to assess the effect of L-Citrulline on dexamethasone-induced derangement in liver enzymes and serum proteins in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five male Wistar rats, weighing between 200 and 250 g, were randomly assigned into five groups of five rats each. While Group I received no intervention, dexamethasone intraperitoneally (1 mg/kg) was administered to the other groups for 7 days. Groups III, IV, and V were pretreated with 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg L-Citrulline daily for 21 days, respectively. Biochemical assessment was made after humanely sacrificing the animals. Values at P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant compared to the dexamethasone group. Results: L-Citrulline significantly lowered the levels of aspartate transferase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT), gamma–glutamyltransferase, and serum total and conjugated bilirubin in a dose-dependent manner. The greatest reduction in alkaline phosphatase level by L-Citrulline was recorded at 200 mg/kg (13.96 ± 0.73 IU/L). Similarly, the total protein level was significantly increased by L-Citrulline 800 mg/kg (9.38 ± 0.39 g/dL), but the greatest increase in albumin level was at 400 mg/kg (4.20 ± 0.21 g/dL). In a dose-dependent manner, the AST: ALT ratios were markedly reduced while the albumin: globulin ratios were greatly increased following L-Citrulline supplementation. Conclusion: L-Citrulline supplementation confers hepatoprotective effect against dexamethasone-induced derangements in liver enzymes and serum proteins in Wistar rats.