Abstract:
Aloe vera is a medical plant that has been used, traditionally, in treatment of several dermal disorders. In addition
to its role as an anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemic agent. Aloe vera gel extract
contains several compounds like minerals, enzymes, hormones and carbohydrates. Therefore, Aloe vera as well as
its bioactive constituents have been studied to determine its intriguing potential roles in medicinal science.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are biologically active precursor cells that can self-renew and develop into a
variety of cell types. Plant extracts have been used, in vitro, to enhance the proliferation and differentiation of
MSCs. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of lyophilized Aloe vera gel together
with bone marrow (BM)-MSCs transplantation against radiation induced liver damage (RILD) in X-ray irradiated
Sprague dawley male rats. By determining the oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes, and pro-inflammatory
cytokines in liver tissue homogenate, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of lyophilized Aloe
vera gel were investigated. The degree of liver damage and NF-κB expression were determined using histological
and immunohistochemical staining techniques. The results showed that treatment of irradiated rats with
lyophilized Aloe vera gel and MSCs transplantation has led to an improvement in liver function and a decrease in
fibrotic markers, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory cytokines; as well as, a reduction in the pathological
alterations in the rats’ liver and a reduced NF-κB activation. Lyophilized Aloe vera gel provided two important
functions; where it stimulated the differentiation of transplanted MSCs and alleviated the radiation induced
damages in liver. Aloe vera’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have enhanced liver function, as well
as, creating a favorable environment for MSCs development in the liver. MSCs, in combination with lyophilized
Aloe vera gel, hold promise for regenerative medicine; where, it has a considerable impact on MSCs
differentiation.
