Cardioprotective Effects of α-Asarone Against Hexavalent Chromium-Induced Oxidative Damage in Mice

Introduction: This comprehensive study investigated the therapeutic potential of alpha-asarone in mitigating myocardial oxidative damage, primarily induced by hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) exposure in mice. Methods: In this experiment, 24 mice were divided into four groups to assess the cardioprotective role of alpha-asarone. The study focused on two treatment groups, receiving 25 mg and 50 mg of alpha-asarone, respectively. These groups were compared against a control group subjected to Cr(VI) without alpha-asarone treatment, and a normal control negative group. The key biochemical parameters evaluated included serum levels of Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) and Troponin I, markers indicative of myocardial damage. Additionally, the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured to assess lipid peroxidation, alongside the evaluation of key inflammatory biomarkers in cardiac tissue homogenates, such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta). Results Remarkably, alpha-asarone treatment resulted in a significant reduction in these markers compared to the control group. The treatment also elevated the activity of cardinal antioxidant enzymes like catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced the glutathione (GSH). Furthermore, a notable upregulation of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPAR-gamma) in cardiac tissue homogenates was observed, highlighting a potential pathway through which alpha-asarone exerts its protective effects. Histopathological analysis of cardiac tissues revealed that alpha-asarone ameliorated the structural lesions induced by Cr(VI). The study thus provides substantial evidence that alpha-asarone ameliorates Cr(VI)-induced cardiotoxicity through a multifaceted approach. It enhances cardiac enzyme function, modulates free radical generation, improves antioxidant status, and mitigates histopathological damage in cardiac tissues. Given these findings, alpha-asarone emerges as a promising agent against Cr(VI)-induced myocardial injury. Purpose: This study paves the way for further research into the cardioprotective properties of alpha-asarone and its potential application in clinical settings by specifically exploring the protective efficacy of alpha-asarone against Cr(VI)-induced cardiotoxicity and delineating the underlying biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved.