Evaluation of Hepatoprotective Potential of Selenium, Vitamin E, and Clove (<i>Syzygium aromaticum</i>) Extract in Modulating Apoptotic Gene Expression in Dianabol-Treated Rats

Abstract

Background: Dianabol is a well-known anabolic steroid; however, its misuse has been associated with hepatotoxic effects. Objectives: The present study aims to investigate the effects of selenium, vitamin E, and clove extract on liver function and apoptotic pathways to identify potential therapeutic strategies for mitigating steroid-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods: Thirty-three male Wistar rats were divided into six groups. The control group received physiological serum, while experimental groups were administered dianabol (15 mg/kg) alone or in combination with vitamin E (100 IU/kg), selenium (0.5 mg/kg), and methanolic clove extract (4 mg/kg) for 42 days via oral gavage. Blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture, and liver tissues were excised for molecular analyses. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured, and apoptosis-related gene expression (BAX, BCL2) was assessed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Statistical analyses were performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t-tests. Results: Dianabol treatment resulted in a significant increase in AST activity, which was mitigated by clove extract. No significant differences in ALT activity were observed. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was elevated in the dianabol and selenium-treated group but decreased with clove extract. Dianabol suppressed pro-apoptotic BAX expression while increasing BCL2 expression. However, selenium, clove, and vitamin E counteracted these effects by enhancing BAX and reducing BCL2 expression, suggesting a potential protective role against dianabol-induced apoptosis suppression. Conclusions: This study highlights the impact of dianabol on liver function and apoptosis-related gene expression, while demonstrating the protective potential of selenium, clove extract, and vitamin E.