Biochemical Analysis of Persea americana Extract for Mitigating Cadmium-Induced Liver Damage in Rats

Abstract

This research investigated the effects of methanol seed extract of Persea americana Mill on the liver of Wistar rats exposed to cadmium toxicity. The liver, known for its critical role in metabolism and interaction with the gastrointestinal tract, is predisposed to damage caused by drugs and other harmful chemicals. According to research, P. americana is rich in secondary metabolites with hepatoprotective properties. The seeds of P. americana were obtained from its fruits, procured from a local seller. The seeds were cut, air-dried under shade until crisp, pounded into powder, and extracted in methanol for 72 hours. Exactly 20 rats were subdivided into four groups, each containing five rats. The normal control group was given normal saline. The second group received 20 mg/kg bw CdSO4, the third group received 20 mg/kg bw CdSO4 with 400 mg/kg bw extract, and the fourth group received 20 mg/kg bw CdSO4 with 100 mg/kg bw silymarin. The results showed a significant difference in AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT levels in group 1 compared to the second group, which exhibited an increase. The treated groups demonstrated a considerable decrease in these marker enzymes relative to the induced group. There was no statistically significant difference in the protein levels among the groups. However, albumin levels decreased in group 2 compared to the other groups. MDA levels increased significantly in group 2, while SOD and CAT levels showed a significant decrease in group 2. The plant extract exhibited a promising hepatoprotective effect on the liver of animals induced with cadmium (CdSO4).