Journal of Clinical Toxicology
Open Access

Abstract

Nonylphenol Induced Liver Metabolic Disorders and Possible Remediation by Oleuropein and Hydroxytyrosol

Hela Ghorbel*, Sami Sayadi, Lobna Jlail, Héla Fourati, Ines Fki

Introduction: Several toxicological studies have suggested the involvement of Endocrine Disruptors (EDCs) in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and related metabolic disorders such as obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Recently, nonylphenol (NP) has been identified as a potential factor in NAFLD. The purpose of this study was to investigate the progression of NP-induced disorders and the potential protective effects of the olive bioactives oleuropein (Ol) and hydroxytyrosol (Hd) on rats' liver and metabolic parameters.

Materials and Methods: Four rat groups were used: A control group (C), a Nonylphenol-Treated group (NP), a group treated with Nonylphenol and Oleuropein (NP+Ol), and a group treated with Nonylphenol and Hydroxytyrosol (NP+Hd). Various techniques were employed to assess chemical, hormonal, and histomorphometric changes. Serum nonylphenol and its derivatives were quantified using LC-MS/MS. Leptin and insulin serum concentrations were determined using sandwich ELISA kits. Adipose tissue parameters were assessed by Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Finally, histological sections of liver and adipose tissue were analyzed using ImageJ software.

Results: The NP-treated group exhibited metabolic disorder syndrome, characterized by Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Compared to controls, T2DM in these animals was confirmed by elevated serum glucose and insulin levels. Additionally, deterioration in hepatic antioxidant status was observed, marked by significant alterations in hepatic MDA and ABTS levels, alongside changes in serum biochemical parameters consistent with Toxicant-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (TAFLD). LC-MS/MS analysis of serum from NP-treated rats revealed a significant increase in nonylphenol concentrations, as well as newly generated endogenous polybrominated and polychlorinated nonylphenol derivatives. The administration of Oleuropein (Ol) and Hydroxytyrosol (Hd) improved hepatic function and ameliorated related physiological disorders

Conclusions: Olive bioactive molecules exhibit protective potential against nonylphenol-induced liver toxicity and related metabolic disorders.

Published Date: 2025-12-30; Received Date: 2025-12-01