Objective: 

Carbon tetrachloride is a solvent known for its hepatotoxicity. Its effects are due mostly to CCl3ƃ radical production. Chitosan, a natural polymer obtained from the exoskeleton of marine crustaceous, seems to have antioxidant properties. The aim of our study was to asses the antioxidant effect of chitosan in chronic exposure to CCl4.

Methods: 

The experiments lasted four weeks. Eighty female Wistar rats (215±12 g), divided into four equal groups were used. Group I (control) received twice a week 0.9 ml of sunflower oil. Rats from groups II-IV received twice a week 1.2 ml/kg CCl4 25% diluted in sunflower oil (by gavage). The animals from group III also received 5 mg/kg vitamin E daily (i.m.), while those of group IV, 3 mg/kg of chitosan (i.p.). After 15 and 30 days, blood and liver tissue samples have been taken. The oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde, SH groups, GSH) and liver function (AST) were assesed. Liver tissue samples were examined and Knodell Histological Activity Index was calculated.

Results: 

AST and MDA level showed a significant increase after exposure to CCl4: first in the liver tissue (day 15) then in the blood (day 30). Chitosan reduced the oxidative stress markers and increased GSH to values similar to those of the control group. Liver function was improved. The histopathological findings supported the results.

Conclusions: 

Chitosan has a good antioxidant effect. It is able to decrease lipid peroxidation and to protect the endogenous antioxidant systems (GSH) against CCl4 aggression. In the used dose, chitosan has a hepatoprotective and antioxidant effect superior to that of the vitamin E.