Effect of Ferula elaeochytris on irisin levels in rat heart

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the levels of irisin in the heart, which is a vital organ, in rats of different ages and to reveal whether Ferula elaeochytris (FE) has an effect on the expression of the irisin. Materials and Methods: Our study was designed in six groups, young (4 months), middle age (12 months), old (24 months) rats which were given FE extract for 8 weeks and their control groups. After that their heart tissues were taken and irisin levels were measured by immunohistochemical staining method. Results: The obtained results were analyzed by performing histoscoring. It was observed that the level of irisin in old rats was statistically significantly lower in young and middle age rats. In addition, irisin level of in all groups administered with FE extract was found significantly increased. Conclusion: FE extract increases the level of irisin through other pathways besides its protective effect against tissue damage.