Hepatoprotective mechanisms of ginkgo-Biloba and dandelion extracts: antioxidant activity and modulation of TNF-α and P53 pathways in Thioacetamide-induced liver injury

Abstract Liver injuries, especially those induced by chemical toxins and pharmaceuticals, are increasingly prevalent. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effects of Ginkgo biloba and dandelion extracts in a rat model of thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver injury. Twenty-eight male albino rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control, TAA-treated, TAA plus G. biloba (100 mg/kg), and TAA plus dandelion (500 mg/kg). TAA administration over eight weeks significantly elevated serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT), bilirubin, cholesterol, and triglycerides (P < 0.05) while significantly reducing total protein and albumin levels (P < 0.05). TAA also induced oxidative stress, evident by increased hepatic malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione levels (P < 0.05). Co-treatment with G. biloba or dandelion extracts significantly ameliorated these biochemical alterations (P < 0.05), with G. biloba demonstrating slightly stronger effects. Histopathological examination showed reduced necrosis, fibrosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration in treated groups. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed decreased expression of TNF-α and P53 proteins (P < 0.05), indicating anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. These findings suggest that G. biloba and dandelion extracts confer protective effects against TAA-induced liver damage through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.