Sepia Ink Influences Hematopoiesis in Anemic Rats by Improving the Antioxidant System, and Suppressing Inflammation and Apoptosis

Approximately 25% of the global population experiences anemia, with preschool-aged children accounting for nearly 50% of these instances. Cuttlefish (Sepia sp.) is a mollusk species used as a food ingredient due to its high nutritional value and potential nutraceutical effects. The present study examines the hematopoietic effect of cuttlefish ink in anemic rats.

Anemia was induced by administering phenylhydrazine (PHZ) intraperitoneally at a dose of 40mg/kg for two consecutive days. Rats were then divided into three groups (n = 6 each): control, anemia, and Sepia ink treatment (200mg/kg orally for six days).

Sepia ink contains many phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Administration of Sepia ink resulted in a significant improvement in hematological parameters, liver enzymes, serum proteins, iron concentration, kidney biomarkers, antioxidant system, and DNA integrity. Histopathological examination revealed a marked restoration of liver and kidney architecture following Sepia ink administration. Additionally, the Prussian blue stain demonstrated inhibition of hemosiderin expression in liver and kidney tissues. Moreover, immunohistochemistry revealed reduced TNF-α expression in the liver and kidney following Sepia ink treatment.

The hematopoietic mechanisms of Sepia ink encompass the enhancement of iron metabolism, stimulation of the antioxidant system, suppression of inflammation, and inhibition of apoptosis.