Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

  Background : There are few studies indicating the association of Salvia officinalis extract with tumor markers. The main aim of this study was to determine the effects of Salvia officinalis extract on serum level of CEA (Carcinogenic embryonic antigen) in male rats.

  Methods: In this laboratory experimental study, male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, normal saline or Salvia officinalis extract (100 or 200 mg/kg/body weight) receiving animals of 5 in each group. After 7 weeks blood samples were collected using cardiac puncture method. Following serum collection, CEA level was measured by radioimmunoassay method. Data were statistically analyzed and compared between groups using ANOVA.

  Results: The results indicated that serum CEA level was significantly decreased in rats receiving Salvia officinalis extract (200mg/kg/body weight) compared with control animals (P<0.05), however, CEA serum level was not significantly changed in rats receiving 100mg/kg/body weight of extract compared to control animals

  Conclusion: Our findings show that appropriate dose of Salvia officinalis extract can decrease serum level of CEA, on which medicinal application of this extract particularly in cancers accompanied by CEA increased serum level is conceivable.