사염화 탄소에 의한 흰쥐의 간장기능 장해와 토룡엑기스의 투여효과

Effects of Earthworm (Lamnodrilus gotai Hatai) Extract on the Hepatotoxicity of Carbon Tetrachloride in Rats

These studies were attempted to investigate the therapeutic effect of earthworm (Lamnodrilus gotai Hatai) extract (LS) on the liver damage induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in rats. Male rats (Sprague-Dawley) were treated with sub-chronic concentration of CCl4, which was 0.2ml/kg of CCl4 via peroral administration twice a week. LS administration to rats (6ml/kg, po) prevented the development of fatty liver, necrosis and fibrosis induced by CCl4. Furthermore, as compared with rats suspended after treated with CCl4 only, LS treatment significantly decreased the increment in serum enzyme activities, liver enlargement and improved growth rate. This protective effect was observed when LS was given monthly for 4 months after CCl4 treated for 2 months. These results suggest that earthworm extract has appreciable therapeutic effect on CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity.