Prevention of selenite-induced cataractogenesis by Origanum vulgare extract.

The present study sought to assess antioxidant effect of Origanum vulgare extract in preventing selenite-induced cataractogenesis. This study was performed on Young white rats received sodium selenite (30 nmol g(-1) birth weight) subcutaneously on day 13 post partum during two months in 2009. Cataract formation and intensity was detected and measured by slit-lamp. Origanum vulgare (Ov) extract (2 g kg(-1)) was given (1-2 times) intraperitoneal at different times with respect to the selenite administration lens opacification was analyzed in selenite, selenite-Ov, Ov and control groups on day 7 after selenite administration. Ov extract have revealed a significant protective effect against selenite induced cataract when injected 1 and 2 day (2 times) before selenite injection. There is a protective effect of Ov against selenite induced cataract formation. It is supposed that the anticataract effect of Ov extract could be based on direct or indirect antioxidant mechanisms.