Effect of ibuprofen on the submandibular salivary gland in rats: Histological and biochemical study

Abstract

Many people rely on ibuprofen as a nonsteroidal inflammatory medication to relieve pain and reduce inflammation linked to different health issues, like arthritis and sports injuries or headaches. The drug works by hindering certain enzymes called cyclooxygenase (COX) (Upadhyay et al., 2021). This action decreases the production of prostaglandins that trigger pain and inflammation in the body (Jang et al., 2020). Although ibuprofen is known for its effectiveness and general safety profile, over time; several research findings indicate that prolonged or excessive consumption of ibuprofen could result in effects such as stomach ulcers and complications with the kidneys and liver functions; therefore it is crucial to further investigate the potential impact of ibuprofen on other organs that might be influenced by long term usage (Varrassi et al., 2020). The salivary glands are parts of the digestive system, and here we make a special mention to the submandibular salivary gland for its importance in producing saliva that aids in primary digestion and protects oral tissues while also helping in swallowing food effectively (Bowers et al., 2021). Extended contact with substances or drugs can harm these glands. Disruption of the secretion of saliva affects oral and digestive processes negatively (Chibly et al., 2022). Certain research suggests that NSAIDs could potentially impact the production of saliva and the makeup of glands; however the specific effects of ibuprofen on the submandibular gland have not been extensively studied yet (Sangalli et al., 2023). This investigation aims to explore how ibuprofen affects the biochemical aspects of the salivary gland in rats (Daba and Bogazia, 2023). The immunohistochemical markers chosen for this research study focus on two indicators related to stress, glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (Liesche-Starnecker et al., 2020). Glutathione functions as an antioxidant that plays a role in safeguarding cells from harm caused by free radicals and is essential for maintaining cellular equilibrium and minimizing oxidative stress levels in the body’s cells (Labarrere & Kassab, 2022). On the other hand malondialdehyde is a byproduct resulting from peroxidation and is regarded as a reliable indicator reflecting oxidative damage and cellular injury (Bey et al., 2024). Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the creation of free radicals and protective antioxidants in the body; this situation can result in harm to proteins, fats and DNA and is closely linked to the onset of numerous long term illnesses and tissue damage (Engwa et al., 2022). This study will not involve analyzing only biochemistry but also performing examinations to evaluate any alterations in the submandibular gland caused by exposure to ibuprofen to assess potential changes in the glands structure and function resulting from prolonged drug use. The main goal of this research is to carefully study the biochemical effects of ibuprofen on the salivary gland in rats and provide comprehensive information on how ibuprofen affects oxidative stress levels and structural modifications in the salivary gland tissue in order to enhance our scientific knowledge about the impact of NSAIDs on salivary tissue. The findings of this study may contribute to safer usage guidelines for ibuprofen and to the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing the side effects associated with its prolonged use