Histological Study of the Possible Protective Role of Scutellarin on the Cardiac Muscle Injury Induced by Hind Limb Ischemia–Reperfusion in Adult Male Albino Rat

Abstract

Background Ischemia–reperfusion injury is a severe disorder that can lead to dysfunctions in various organs. Scutellarin is a Chinese medical herb with many pharmacological activities, including antioxidant and a scavenger of reactive oxidative radicals that has a promising role in myocardial protection. Aim The aim is to investigate the potential protective effect of scutellarin on cardiac muscle injuries caused by hind limb I/R in adult male albino rats. Materials and methods Forty adult male albino rats were used in this study. Group I (control) were separated into two subgroups equally. Subgroup Ia did not undergo any therapy, whereas subgroup Ib was given 0.5 ml intraperitoneal injections of saline. Group II was administered scutellarin dissolved in 0.5 ml of saline, through intraperitoneal injections at a dosage of 20 mg/kg/day. Group III was subjected to hind limb ischemia by applying a rubber band tourniquet over the greater trochanter of the thigh for 4 h. Subsequently, the limb was reperfused for 24 h. Group IV received intraperitoneal injections of scutellarin dissolved in 0.5 ml saline at a dosage of 20 mg/kg/day, 15 min before induction of hind limb ischemia as outlined in group III. Cardiac muscle sections had been stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Results Group III showed discontinuation, separation, vacuolation of cardiac muscle fibers, area of hemorrhage, and cellular infiltration. Most of these histological alterations were less pronounced in group IV. Conclusion Scutellarin can protect the cardiac muscle against I/R injury. Recommendations High risk people to ischemia-reperfusion are advised to take scutellarin as a protective supplement.