Aloe veragel as a stimulant for mesenchymal stem cells differentiation and a natural therapy for radiation induced liver damage

Aloe verais a medical plant that has been used, traditionally, in treatment of several dermal disorders. In addition to its role as an anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemic agent. Aloe veragel extract contains several compounds like minerals, enzymes, hormones and carbohydrates. Therefore, Aloe veraas well as its bioactive constituents have been studied to determine its intriguing potential roles in medicinal science. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are biologically active precursor cells that can self-renew and develop into a variety of cell types. Plant extracts have been used, in vitro, to enhance the proliferation and differentiation of MSCs. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of lyophilized Aloe veragel together with bone marrow (BM)-MSCs transplantation against radiation induced liver damage (RILD) in X-ray irradiated Sprague dawley male rats. By determining the oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in liver tissue homogenate, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of lyophilized Aloe veragel were investigated. The degree of liver damage and NF-κB expression were determined using histological and immunohistochemical staining techniques. The results showed that treatment of irradiated rats with lyophilized Aloe veragel and MSCs transplantation has led to an improvement in liver function and a decrease in fibrotic markers, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory cytokines; as well as, a reduction in the pathological alterations in the rats' liver and a reduced NF-κB activation. Lyophilized Aloe veragel provided two important functions; where it stimulated the differentiation of transplanted MSCs and alleviated the radiation induced damages in liver. Aloe vera's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have enhanced liver function, as well as, creating a favorable environment for MSCs development in the liver. MSCs, in combination with lyophilized Aloe veragel, hold promise for regenerative medicine; where, it has a considerable impact on MSCs differentiation.