Harungana Madagascariensis Stem Bark Confers Ameliorative Potential against Subchronic Dichlorvos Induced Oxidative Stress

Abstract

Dichlorvos (DDVP) is an organophosphate insecticide known to cause oxidative stress, which can have a number of negative public health consequences. Harungana madagascariensis (HM), also known as dragon blood tree/amuje, is a plant with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties found to reduce oxidative stress in a variety of scenarios. In this study, we looked at the ability of HM stem bark extract to reduce subchronic DDVP induced oxidative stress in rats. Forty (40) Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned into polyphenylene cages Eight (8) per cage in five groups namely; control (group 1), group 2 (DDVP exposed), and treatment groups (groups 3, 4, 5 ‘DDVP exposed’ + 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg extract, respectively). Male rats were treated with DDVP (10 mg/kg b.w) except for the control. Both the stressor/toxicant and extract were administered orally throughout the study duration of 28 days. At the end of the study, rats were sedated with chloroform, and blood and organ samples were collected for biochemical analysis. Biomarkers of oxidative stress, such as SOD, CAT, GPx, MDA, and NO, were meticulously evaluated in liver, kidney, and serum. Hormonal indicators, such as FSH, LH, and TES, were assessed in serum too. The result revealed that HM stem bark extract has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect against subchronic DDVP-induced oxidative stress. The extract also influences increased SOD, CAT, and GPx activity and decreased MDA and NO levels in DDVP exposed rats’ liver, kidney, and serum. Additionally, it decreased FSH, LH, and TES levels in DDVP-exposed rats suggesting a potential hormonal protective property. The results are indicative that HM stem bark extract has potential as a therapeutic agent for treatment of subchronic DDVP-induced oxidative stress and its related adverse health conditions. Advance studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms of action of HM stem bark extract and to determine its efficacy in human populations.