MITIGATORY ROLE OF MELON SEEDS OIL ON TETRACYCLINE- INDUCED НЕРАТІС ТOXICITY IN MALE MICE

Tetracycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, is known for its potential hepatotoxic effects when used extensively. This study investigates the protective role of melon seeds oil (Cucumis melő) against tetracycline-induced hepatic toxicity in male mice. Thirty (30) adult male wistar mice weighing between 20-38kg were divided into four groups: a control group, a tetracycline-only group, a tetracycline+melon seeds oil low dose group, and a tetracycline+melon seeds oil high dose group. Hepatic toxicity was induced using oral administration of tetracycline at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg body weight for 48 days. The low and high dose treatment group received melon seeds oil orally at a dose of 0.3mL/kg and 0.5mL/kg body weight concurrently with tetracycline administration. After the treatment period, the body weight was taken and the animals were sacrificed liver function markers such as serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were measured. Additionally, histopathological examinations of liver tissues were conducted. The results showed that tetracycline-only group exhibited significant elevations in serum ALT, AST, and ALP levels, indicating hepatic damage. Conversely, the group treated with melon seeds oil showed a substantial reduction in these enzyme levels compared to the tetracycline-only group. Histopathological analysis revealed marked hepatocyte degeneration and necrosis in the tetracycline-only group, while the combined treatment group displayed preserved hepatic architecture with minimal pathological changes. In conclusion, the findings suggest that melon seeds oil exerts a hepatoprotective effect against tetracycline-induced hepatic toxicity in male mice. The protective mechanism may involve the oil's antioxidant properties, which mitigate oxidative stress and preserve liver function. Keywords: Melon seeds oil, Tetracycline, Hepatotoxicity, Antioxidants, Liver function, Oxidative stress, Hepatoprotection.