Background
Proline is a proteinogenic
amino acid with multiple biological functions. Several investigations have been supposed that cellular
proline accumulation is a stress response mechanism. This
amino acid acts as an osmoregulator, scavenges
free radical species, boosts cellular
antioxidant defense mechanisms, protects mitochondria, and promotes energy production. The current study was designed to investigate the effect of
proline treatment on the liver in bile duct ligated (BDL) rats as an animal model of
cholestasis/
cirrhosis. Methods BDL rats were supplemented with
proline-containing
drinking water (0.25% and 0.5% w:v), and samples were collected at scheduled time intervals (3, 7, 14, 28, and 42 days after BDL surgery). Results Drastic elevation in the serum level of liver injury
biomarkers and significant tissue histopathological changes were evident in BDL rats. Markers of oxidative stress were also higher in the liver of BDL animals. It was found that
proline supplementation attenuated BDL-induced alteration in serum
biomarkers of liver injury, mitigated liver histopathological changes, and alleviated markers of oxidative stress at the early stage of BDL operation (3, 7, and 14 days after BDL surgery). Conclusions The hepatoprotection provided by
proline in BDL animals might be associated with its ability to attenuate oxidative stress and its consequences.