Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most prevalent chronic liver condition in developed countries, posing a significant public health challenge. Its increasing incidence is attributed mainly to rising rates of obesity and metabolic syndrome, and this highlights the need for effective preventive and management strategies.
Aim: This study investigated onion (Allium cepa) as a treatment for carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced fatty liver disease.
Materials and Methods: Thirty-five male Wistar rats (150-200g) were divided into seven groups. Group 1 received only water and standard feed; Group 2 received onion extract for 8 weeks; Group 3 received CCl4 (0.5 ml/kg bw, i.p.) twice weekly for 8 weeks; Groups 4 and 5 received CCl4 for 5 weeks followed by 100 mg/kg bw/day and 200 mg/kg bw/day of onion extract, respectively, for 3 weeks; Groups 6 and 7 received CCl4 for 5 weeks followed by raw onion mixed with feed in different ratios for 3 weeks. Liver gene expressions and histology were analyzed.
Results: Exposure to carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) significantly (P < 0.05) increased levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and HMG-CoA reductase, indicating liver damage. Histological analysis confirmed structural alterations in all groups except the control. Treatment with onion extract, particularly at 200 mg/kg, reduced AFP, TNF-α, and HMG-CoA reductase levels and improved liver histology.
Conclusion: This study suggests Allium cepa may alleviate liver damage in CCl4-induced fatty liver disease, advocating further research on its long-term safety, efficacy, and molecular mechanisms.