Ellagic acid reduces methotrexate-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction via up-regulating Nrf2 expression and inhibiting the IĸBα/NFĸB in rats

Background The clinical application of methotrexate (MTX), an efficacious cytotoxic drug, is restricted due to its associated liver toxicity. Ellagic acid (EA), a natural polyphenol, possesses hepatoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.