Beneficial effects of Ebselen on corrosive esophageal burns of rats

Abstract Aim This study was evaluated to investigate the efficacy of Ebselen, which is an organoselenium compound and glutathione peroxidase mimic, on the prevention of stricture development after esophageal caustic injuries in the rat. Methods Thirty healthy male Wistar albino rats were utilized in this study. The rats were randomly allotted into one of three experimental groups: group A (sham) animals were uninjured. Caustic esophageal burn was created by applying 1 ml of 37.5% NaOH to the distal esophagus. Group B rats were injured but untreated. Group C rats were injured and received Ebselen (10 mg/kg/day) via the oral route. Blood and tissue samples for the biochemical and histopathological analysis were taken all rats at the end (28th day) of the experiment. Oxidative stress is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of corrosive esophageal burns. To assess changes in the cellular antioxidant defense system, we measured the activities of antioxidant enzymes (such as glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT)) in esophagus homogenates. We also measured esophageal tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, a marker of lipid peroxidation, to determine whether there is an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant status. Efficacy of the treatment was assessed by measuring the stenosis index and histopathologic damage score and biochemically by determining tissue hydroxyproline content, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme levels. Results The stenosis index in group B was significantly increased compared with group A and C ( P P P P Conclusion It is concluded that Ebselen has a preventive effect in the development of fibrosis and decrease the lipid peroxidation, and increase the antioxidant defense system activity in an experimental model of corrosive esophagitis in rats.