Immunohistochemical analysis and distribution of lymphocytes and Kupffer cells in the liver of rats with long-term experimental use of hemp seed oil.

OBJECTIVE

Aim: To conduct histological and immunohistochemical analysis and distribution of lymphocytes and Kupffer cells in the liver of rats with long-term experimental use of hemp seed oil (HSO).

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Materials and

Methods

26 sexually mature male rats (180-230 g, 5-7 months old) were divided into three groups: experimental (n=14, 0.5 ml/kg/day HSO orally for 10 weeks), control (n=6, 0.1 ml/kg/day HSO orally for 10 weeks), and intact (n=6). Histological and immunohistochemical (CD3, CD20, CD56, CD68) studies, alongside quantitative analysis of lymphocyte and macrophage distribution in hepatic lobules, were performed. Statistical significance was assessed using Mann-Whitney and Pearson tests, with p<0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

Results

After 10 weeks of 0.5 ml/kg/day HSO, 71.43% of experimental rats developed mild fatty liver disease (Kleiner grade S1 steatosis), a significant difference from the control group (p<0.0001). No histological inflammation or necrotic changes in hepatocytes were observed. Small numbers of CD3 lymphocytes were present in portal tracts, without extending into or damaging the adjacent parenchyma. CD20 and NK resident lymphocytes were sparse. Aggregates of CD68-positive Kupffer cells were most common near liver lobule triads. The average number of Kupffer cells (5.79±0.06 per 0.01 mm2) in the experimental group significantly (p<0.001) exceeded the control by 1.49 times, suggesting hyperplasia of specialized macrophages and their increased role in liver immune function.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions

Ten weeks of experimental use indicates that hemp seed oil is safe to consume at a dose of 0.5 ml/kg/day.