Immunohistochemical Localization of Alpha-fetoprotein in Liver of Adult Male Albino Rats Treated with Homocysteine and Trimethylglycine

Introduction: Alpha-fetoprotein(AFP) has been reported to be associated with hepatocellular carcinoma. Homocysteine (HCY) could be one of the factors contributing in elevating alpha-fetoprotein level in the rat liver. We aimed at investigating the effect of HCYon rat liver and studying the protective effect of Trimethylglycine (TMG). Materials and Methods: Adult albino rats were made hyperhomocystenamic by oral supplementation of 0.6mg/kg homocysteine compared to control and trimethylglycine 6gm/kg treated groups for 6 weeks of experimental duration. Liver was prepared for histopathological, histochemical studies. AFP was investigated by immunohistochemical techniques. Results: Higher reaction of alpha-fetoprotein was observed in rat liver of HCY treated group rather than the interacting group, compared to –ve reaction in both control and TMG treated groups. Histopathological results of HCY treated rats revealed liver hepatocytes with cytoplasmic vacuolation and pyknotic nuclei. Dilatation of the central viens with interstitial haemorrhage and amyloid deposition were also observed. Kupfer cells and lymphocytes were both apparently increased. These changes were improved markedly with TMG administration. Histochemical localization for carbohydrates showed decrease reaction in hepatocytes of HCY treated group rather than other groups. Conclusion: It is concluded that HCY induced severe hepatic alterations. These alterations were less prominent in animals treated with TMG indicating that TMG can be possible hepatoprotector against HCYinduced toxicity.