Abstract
Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential protective effects of black mulberry (Morus nigra, MN) extract, known for its antioxidant properties, against gastrointestinal mucositis induced by high-dose methotrexate (MTX) treatment, assessed using histological and biochemical parameters.
Material and Methods: Male Wistar albino rats (200-250 g) were randomly assigned to four groups of 14 animals each:
• Group 1 received 30 mg/kg MTX intraperitoneally on day 1 to induce intestinal damage.
• Group 2 received 30 mg/kg MTX intraperitoneally on day 1, followed by 500 mg/kg of MN extract administered by gavage. One subgroup received MN for 4 days; the other subgroup received MN for 6 days.
• Group 3 received intragastric saline only (0.001 mL/kg-2.5 mL/kg).
• Group 4 received 500 mg/kg MN extract by oral gavage for 4 or 6 days, depending on the subgroup.
The animals were sacrificed on either day 4 or day 6. Blood samples were analyzed for total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS). Tissue samples from the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were examined for levels of Ki-67, myeloperoxidase (MPO), malon dialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin- 1 beta (IL-1β), TOS, and TAS.
Results: In the group treated with both MTX and MN extract, levels of MDA, MPO, IL-1β, and TNF-α were significantly lower than those in the MTX-only group. Ki-67 levels were higher in intestinal tissues, indicating enhanced epithelial regeneration.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that MN extract protects against MTX-induced mucosal damage and promotes intestinal epithelial healing. These promising results highlight the potential of MN as a supportive treatment in preventing MTX-related toxicity; however, further large-scale and clinical studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.