Gastroprotective activity of apigenin attenuates gastric lesions in a murine model of chronic ulcer

Peptic ulcer disease, a major global health challenge, arises from an imbalance between aggressive and defensive factors in the gastrointestinal mucosa. Current treatments, mainly proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics, often have side effects and access problems. Apigenin (4′,5,7-trihydroxyflavone), a natural flavonoid, has recognized antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties. This study investigated the gastroprotective effects of apigenin in a murine model of chronic gastric ulcer induced by acetic acid, which closely mimics human pathology. Mice were subjected to serous application of acetic acid (99.5%) to induce ulcers. After surgery, treatments were administered orally twice daily for seven days and included apigenin (1, 5, and 20 mg/kg), omeprazole (30 mg/kg, positive control), or vehicle (distilled water). Apigenin, at all doses tested, significantly reduced the ulcer area, with the most potent effect observed at a dose of 5 mg/kg (97.46% reduction, p