Protective effects of quercetin on necrotizing enterocolitis in a neonatal rat model

Abstract

Introduction Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the major health problems of newborn period. To date, a large amount of chemicals have been tested for NEC and some showed limited beneficial effects. The research for better results still continues. This study aims to investigate the effects of quercetin (QE) on NEC treatment in rats. Methods Newborn rats were divided into control, NEC, and NEC+QE groups. In NEC and NEC+QE groups, experimental NEC was induced. NEC+QE group animals were also given QE. Weight changes of the animals were recorded, and serum total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. Histologic evaluation of the distal ileum and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining were performed. Results A significant increase in the TAS levels was observed in NEC+QE group. Only NEC group exhibited significantly higher TOS and MDA levels and lower GSH levels. Rats in the NEC+QE group had better histopathology and less apoptosis than NEC group. Conclusion QE is effective in enhancing antioxidant defense mechanism, limiting oxidative stress, reducing intestinal damage, and preventing NEC development.