The Protective Effects of Silymarin on D-Galactosamine/Tumor Necrosis FactorAlpha-Induced Oxidative Stress and Lung Injury in Mice

Silymarin (Sm) is known for its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antimitotic activities against a broad range of cancers, such as prostate, colon, ovarian, skin and lung cancer. This study targets to determine the protective effects of Sm on lung damage in the mice exposed to D-galactosamine (D-GaIN)/tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). For this purpose, three groups of Balb/c mice were used. The study groups were given saline (0.5 mL), D-GalN/TNF-a, and D-GaIN/TNF-α plus Sm, respectively. Our biochemistry, apoptotic markers and light microscopic findings offer that Sm can noticeably diminish D-GaIN/TNFα-induced pulmonary toxicity. In conclusion, Sm improves degenerative alterations in injured lung owing to D-GalN/TNF-a. This caring effect might be thanks to the capability of Sm to keep oxidant–antioxidant stability