Hepatoprotective Effect of Quinic Acid Against Ethanol-Induced Liver Toxicity in Rats: Biochemical, Physiological, and Histological Insights

Alcohol consumption is associated with several health issues, including Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD). Quinic acid, a cyclic polyol compound, is known for its antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. This study aims to elucidate the protective mechanisms of quinic acid against ethanol-induced liver toxicity in rats. Male rats (n=32) were divided into four groups (n=8 per group) and treated over 60 days. Group 1 received a standard diet with isocaloric glucose; Group 2 was treated with 30% ethanol daily; Group 3 received 30% ethanol and quinic acid (50 mg/kg) from day 31; Group 4 was given glucose and quinic acid from day 31. Biochemical, physiological, and histological evaluations were performed post-treatment. Ethanol-treated rats exhibited significant decreases in body weight, abnormal liver morphology, increased liver enzyme levels (AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT), disrupted lipid and renal profiles, and altered phase I and II enzyme activities. Quinic acid supplementation in ethanol-treated rats significantly reversed these changes by improving body weight, restoring liver morphology, normalizing liver enzyme activities, and maintaining lipid-lipoprotein balance and enzyme levels. Histopathological analysis demonstrated reduced liver damage in quinic acid-treated groups. Quinic acid exhibits hepatoprotective effects against ethanol-induced toxicity by reducing oxidative stress, normalizing liver functions, and preserving liver structure. These findings highlight its potential as a therapeutic agent for managing ALD.