Introduction: Methotrexate (MTX) is widely used as a chemotherapeutic agent. However, severe side effects and toxic conditions limit its efficacy. Recently, it has been focused on the protective effect of plant derived natural compounds, such as ginger, against chemicals inducing toxicity.
Aim: The aim of the present study was to elucidate the possible protective effect of ginger administration on the buccal mucosa of rats under MTX treatment.
Material & methods: Eighteen adult male albino rats were divided into three groups (six animals each). Group I (Control group): rats were sacrificed at the end of the experimental design. Group II (MTX group): received 15mg/Kg/day of MTX for 3 successive days. Group III (MTX and ginger group): received ginger (200mg/kg/day) for 15 successive days then, MTX as in group II concomitantly with ginger administration daily. Rats of groups II and III were sacrificed immediately after the last dose of MTX. Specimens were prepared for histological examination and molecular study.
Results: Histopathological examination of group II revealed atrophy and complete loss of normal architecture with cellular deformities within the buccal mucosal cells. These changes were markedly alleviated in group III specimens. Molecular results supported the histological results which presented marked decrease in DNA relative concentration in group II when compared to the control one, while less obvious decrease in DNA relative concentration was detected in group III.
Conclusion: Pre and co administration of ginger protected and ameliorated most of the damage caused by MTX in the buccal mucosa structure and DNA.