Oxidative-protective effects of Tinospora cordifolia extract on plasma and spleen cells after experimental ochratoxicosis

The importance of Tinospora cordifolia extract was investigated for its possible protective effect in spleen and blood in male ICR albino mice against ochratoxin A-induced toxicity (OTA). OTA instigates oxidative changes and results in the overproduction of free radicals, changes in body/organ weight, and the food consumption and is considered as a risk factor for animals and humans. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and consequent lipid-peroxidative damages caused by OTA are considered to be the main mechanisms leading to oxidative stress disorders in organs and blood. TC oral administrations prevent the physiological status of animals and improve the biochemical parameters of the urine and plasma. Moreover, EPR analysis show that TC administration decreased Asc• and NO• radicals and ROS productions in the spleen and serum, even in OTA-treated group. The significant decrease in MDA formation in the spleen and serum and the increased expression of SOD activity in TC and TC + OTA groups confirm the positive modulatory effect of TC extract on the cellular antioxidant system. TC and TC + OTA treatment caused significant reduction of genotoxic potential (8-OHdG) of OTA, followed by a decreased oxidative activity and gradual recovery of ROS-induced DNA damage. The results suggested that TC extract protect against OTA-induced oxidative disorders and other abnormalities. As typical antioxidant TC could protect splenic macrophages and regain intracellular antioxidant capacity.