Evaluation of the modulatory influence of black pepper (Piper nigrum, L.) on the hepatic detoxication system

The present paper assesses the modifying potential of black pepper on the hepatic biotransformation system in mice. The modulatory effect was assessed on glutathione S -transferase (GST), cytochrome b 5 (cyt. b 5 ), cytochrome P-450 (cyt. P-450), acid-soluble sulfhydryl (-SH) content and malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Swiss albino mice of either sex (eight weeks old) were fed on a diet containing 0.5%, 1% and 2% black pepper (w/w) for 10 and 20 days. The findings revealed a significant and dose-dependent increase in GST and -SH content in the experimental groups except the one maintained on 0.5% black pepper diet for 10 days. Elevated levels of cyt. b 5 and cyt. P-450 were also statistically significant and dosedependent. The level of MDA was lowered in the group fed on 2% black pepper diet for 20 days. Being a potential inducer of detoxication system, the possible chemopreventive role of black pepper in chemical carcinogenesis is suggested.