Protective Effect of Capsaicin against Doxorubicin Induced Cardiotoxicity in Experimental Rats

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the Cardioprotective effect of Capsaicin (CAP) against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced cardiotoxicity in experimental rats. Methods: The 24 wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (with equal numbers): Normal- 1% Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO), DOX (15 mg/kg, i.p), CAP (10 mg/kg, p.o, alone) and CAP 10 mg/kg (in combination with DOX). Cardiotoxicity was induced in wistar rats by administering DOX with a cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg (i.p) for 2 weeks. CAP with a dose of 10 mg/kg was administered in respective groups for 21 days. The influence of the treatment was analysed by quantification of serum biomarkers and antioxidants, electrocardiographic parameters and histopathological observations. Results: In the current study, the activities of Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), Creatine Kinase-NAC (CKNAC), Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB), were reduced (P<0.001) in serum and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Reduced Glutathione (GSH) and Catalase activities were increased (P<0.001) in heart tissue homogenate in all treated groups compared to DOX group. Similarly, the electrocardiographic changes were restored close to normal in all treated groups. Results were further supported by histopathological studies. Conclusion: The results reveal that CAP possesses potential benefits against cardiotoxicity induced by DOX by supressing serum markers and oxidative stress in heart tissues of experimental rats.