Effects of Methanolic and Aqueous Extracts of <i>Griffonia simplicifolia</i> (Fabaceae) on the Inhibition of Falciformation of Human Hb SS Erythrocytes

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape and transportation of red blood cells (RBCs) in blood vessels, leading to various clinical complications. Sickle cell disease is a widespread genetic disease in Black Africa. The objective of this study was to evaluate the sickling inhibition activity of Griffonia simplicifolia. Quantitative and qualitative tests were used to determine the major groups of secondary metabolites present in the Griffonia simplicifolia leaves extracts and the modified Emmel test was used to perform the study of sickling inhibition activity. The OECD 423 toxicity study showed that at a single dose of 2000 mg/kg bw, Griffonia simplicifolia leaves extracts are not toxic. All tested substances inhibit erythrocyte falciformation in a dose-dependent manner. The percentages of inhibition were 50.35%, 73% and 94.23% for aqueous extract, hydromethanolic extract and phenylalanine respectively at the concentration of 15 mg/mL. The methanolic extract (70%) had higher activity compared to the aqueous extract. These results suggest that the Griffonia simplicifolia extracts have some potential to be used as alternative antisickling therapy in SCD management.