Morin and Vanillic Acid Alleviate DEP- and Bisphenol S–Mediated Liver Toxicity via Antioxidant Mechanisms in a Rat Model

Abstract

Abstract

Continuous exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as diethyl phthalate (DEP) and bisphenol S (BPS) is associated with oxidative stress, hepatic dysfunction, and increased risk of tissue injury. This study investigated the hepatoprotective potential of morin and vanillic acid against DEP- and BPS-induced oxidative liver damage in rats. Adult Wistar rats were orally exposed to DEP (50 mg/kg) and BPS (200 mg/kg) for 21 days and co-treated with morin and vanillic acid (25 mg/kg each). Oxidative stress biomarkers, including hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA), were measured. Liver function indices comprising alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated alongside antioxidant parameters such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH). DEP and BPS exposure significantly (P < 0.05) increased oxidative stress markers and liver enzyme activities while suppressing antioxidant defenses, indicating marked hepatocellular injury. Co-administration of morin and vanillic acid significantly reduced H₂O₂, NO, and MDA levels, restored antioxidant enzyme activities, and normalized hepatic biomarkers.  Morin and vanillic acid effectively attenuate DEP- and BPS-induced hepatotoxicity through antioxidant and cytoprotective mechanisms, supporting their potential application in managing endocrine disruptor-associated liver injury.