Madhu Kushwaha

The role of rats in evaluating Hepatoprotective Activity against Nicotine-Induced Toxicity

Nicotine, a major toxic component of tobacco, is known to induce oxidative stress and hepatocellular damage upon chronic exposure. Experimental animal models play a vital role in understanding the pathological mechanisms of nicotine-induced liver injury and in evaluating potential hepatoprotective agents. Rats are widely preferred for such studies due to their physiological similarity to humans, ease of handling, and well-established biochemical parameters. The present study aims to investigate the role of rats in assessing hepatoprotective activity against nicotine-induced toxicity using biochemical, antioxidant, and histopathological parameters. Nicotine administration resulted in significant elevation of liver marker enzymes and oxidative stress, while treatment with hepatoprotective agents showed marked restoration of liver function. This study highlights the importance of rat models in hepatotoxicity research and the evaluation of protective therapeutic interventions".