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Abstract
Abstract: Carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most common environmental pollutants and toxic gases affecting both humans and animals. Chronic exposure to carbon monoxide results in tissue hypoxia, oxidative stress, and structural damage to various organs, including components of the immune system. The thymus and spleen are particularly sensitive to hypoxic injury because of their high cellular turnover and immunological functions. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seed extract, rich in the flavonolignan complex silymarin, possesses potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties. The present review examines the protective effects of milk thistle seed extract on the morphology of the thymus and spleen under conditions of chronic carbon monoxide intoxication. Particular attention is paid to the mechanisms through which silymarin attenuates oxidative stress, preserves lymphoid tissue architecture, stimulates regenerative processes, and improves immune function. Available experimental evidence suggests that milk thistle seed extract may significantly reduce histopathological alterations induced by chronic CO exposure and contribute to the restoration of normal immune organ structure.
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