Effects of gallic acid on intraperitoneal adhesion bands in rats

Gallic acid (GA) is an organic acid that possesses anti-inflammatory effects as it inhibits the production of metalloproteinases, tissue plasminogen activator, growth factors and adhesion molecules. Since formation of abdominal surgery-induced adhesion bands is accompanied by inflammation, angiogenesis and cell proliferation, in the current study, we assessed potential beneficial properties of GA against adhesion bands formation in rats.

Thirty-six adult male rats were assigned into six groups of six animals. After induction of anesthesia, peritoneal injury was induced using a standard method and animals received either GA (10, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg), or normal saline, while a group of rats remained intact. Seven days after the surgery, animals were decapitated and samples were collected for pathology evaluations. Also, lipid peroxidation (TBARS) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were determined in serum samples.

Our results showed that GA significantly reduced lipid peroxidation in serum samples but had no effect on TNF-α levels. Furthermore, microscopic and macroscopic injuries reduced significantly in GA-treated animals.

Since GA reduced adhesion bands formation at microscopic and macroscopic levels, it could be considered a treatment against adhesion bands formation.