RESUMEN
This study investigated the morphological, biochemical and molecular aspects of liver injury in rats after the exposure to difenoconazole and the protective effects of quercetin against hepatotoxicity and genotoxicity induced by this fungicide. Rats were given graded doses of difenoconazole associated or not to quercetin daily for 20 days. Our results showed a significant increase in PLT (platelets) and WBC (white blood cells) in rats treated with higher doses of difenoconazole (1/38 and 1/9 of LD50). However, a significant decrease in Hb (hemoglobin) rate and RBC (red blood cells) number in rats treated with higher doses of difenoconazole (1/38 and 1/9 of LD50) was obtained. Besides, difenoconazole treatment caused an increase in hepatic enzyme activities of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Difenoconazole increased the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and vitamin C levels in liver tissues compared to the control group. We also noted a degradation of nucleic acids, testifying difenoconazole genotoxicity. Changes in hepatic tissues were confirmed by histological findings. Co-administration of quercetin (20 mg/kg) improved hematological and biochemical parameters and showed a significant liver protective effect by decreasing MDA levels and producing advanced oxidation protein, along with increased antioxidative enzyme activities and vitamin C levels. Results were confirmed by the improvement of histological impairments. Thus, it appears that quercetin was effective in preventing acute liver injury induced by exposure to difenoconazole.