Dilek BAYRAM, Nazife KARAKEÇİ, Şükriye YEŞİLOT
Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Dergisi - 2026;33(3):241-252
Objective: Amiodarone is a widely prescribed antiarrhythmic agent, yet hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic side effects frequently limit its clinical use. Viburnum opulus L. (Gilaburu), a fruit native to the Kayseri region of Türkiye, is notable for its antioxidative, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its rich composition of organic acids, phenolic compounds, amino acids, and vitamins suggests potential protective effects against drug-induced organ injury. Material and Method: This study investigated the structural and biochemical changes induced by amiodarone in rat liver and kidney tissues, as well as the potential protective effects of gilaburu. Thirty-two male Wistar rats (300-350 g) were randomly assigned to four groups: control, amiodarone, amiodarone plus gilaburu, and gilaburu. Amiodarone was administered intraperitoneally at 100 mg/kg/day for 10 days, while gilaburu fruit extract was given orally at 100 mg/kg/day. At the end of treatment, hepatic and renal tissues were analyzed histochemically and immunohistochemically, and serum biochemical parameters were assessed. Results: Histological evaluation revealed pronounced hepatic and renal damage in the amiodarone group, which was markedly reduced in the combined treatment group. Immunohistochemical staining for tumor necrosis factor-alpha and inducible nitric oxide synthase showed significantly higher expression in the amiodarone group compared with the combined group (p < 0.05). Biochemical analyses, including total antioxidant status, total oxidant status, and oxidative stress index, supported these findings. Conclusion: Gilaburu fruit extract demonstrated significant protective effects against amiodarone-induced hepatic and renal injury. These results highlight its potential as a natural antioxidant agent that may mitigate drug-induced organ toxicity.
