Hepatorenal Protective Activities of Plantain Root (Musa paradisiaca) on Arsenic-induced Oxidative Damage in Rat

Abstract

The protective role of aqueous root extract of Musa paradisiaca on arsenic chloride-induced oxidative damage in the liver and kidney of albino rats was investigated in this study. Twenty four albino rats were grouped in to four (A, B, C and D). Group A served as the control and received distilled water while B, C and D were administered 10 mg/kg bw of arsenic chloride weekly. Groups C and D were treated with 200 and 500 mg/kg bw of aqueous extract of Musa paradisiaca roots respectively for 28 days while group B was left untreated. Phytochemical screening carried out on the root powder indicated the presence of tannins, terpenoids, steroids, sarponins, cardiac glycosides and flavonoids. Arsenic chloride induced a significant elevation in aminotransferases (ALT and AST), ALP and total bilirubin and reduction in serum protein and albumin indicating derangement of liver function. Significant elevation of serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, blood urea nitrogen and electrolytes levels were also recorded in arsenic intoxicated rats indicating disruption of kidney function. Histological examination of the kidney and liver of arsenic intoxicated rats also indicated significant alteration in tissue architecture and morphology. There was significant increase in the liver and kidney weight index in arsenic treated groups compared to the control indicating tissue inflammation. Treatment of rats with different doses of Musa paradisiaca root extract significantly (P<0.05) normalized liver and kidney functions while it also restored normal tissue histology at the end of the experiment. It can be concluded that Musa paradisiaca contain bioactive constituents capable of protecting the living system against arsenic-induced disruption of liver and kidney functions in rats.