Daidzein ameliorates experimental acute reflux esophagitis in rats via regulation of cytokines

Context: Daidzein is a secondary metabolite derived from plants, has a flavonoid structure and is known for its protective activity in gastrointestinal disorders. Objective: The current work determines the preventive effect of daidzein against injury in the esophagus mucosa induced by esophageal reflux (RE) in an animal model. Methods: Adult male Wistar rats were classified into six groups: normal control, ER + different doses of daidzein and ER + omeprazole. RE was induced in all animals except controls and supplemented with daidzein and standard drugs orally for 6 hours. Serum and tissue were used for further biochemical parameters. Results: Daidzein as a flavonoid has antioxidant properties and shows in vitro antioxidant activity. The outcomes also reveal an elevation in lipid peroxidation and a decline in the levels of sulphhydryl groups and glutathione, along with the depletion in the activities of enzymatic antioxidants in the oxidative stress state. In a dose-dependent manner daidzein and omeprazole amended all macroscopic and biochemical variations and protected against the raised level of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), calcium and free iron levels in esophageal tissue induced during RE. It also improved the expression and level of proinflammatory cytokines. Conclusion: The finding reports that daidzein has a potential to show a shielding effect against esophagus damage induced by RE in rats, at least in part via alteration of inflammatory cytokines.