Methotrexate (MTX) is the first-line agent for rheumatoid arthritis
(RA) treatment although it causes hepatotoxicity leading to poor
compliance to therapy. Sesame oil is unique due to its unusually high
oxidative stability and anti-inflammatory property that attributed
mainly to the presence of
-tocopherol and anti-oxidative sesame
lignans. These components give sesame oil extraordinary high
oxidative stability and anti-inflammatory property. The present study
aimed to investigate the anti-hepatotoxic and therapeutic potential of
sesame oil alone or in combined therapy with MTX on RA rat model.
Assessment of RA performed by measuring paw volume, rheumatoid
factor and anti-cycliccitrullinated peptide antibody. Biomarkers of
cartilage degeneration (MMP-3) and synthesis, (IGF-1), inflammatory
mediators (TNF-
, IL-6, NO), anti-inflammatory mediators(IL-10)
and oxidative stress were estimated. MTX mono-therapy were
enhanced hepatotoxicity but concomitant administration with sesame
oil was able to ameliorating RA biomarker and led to an increase its
effectiveness without hepatotoxicity. Therefore combined therapy of
MTX with sesame oil may lead to synergistic anti-arthritic action with
fewer side effects of MTX on liver.