In vivo, histopathological evaluation, and molecular docking of the antiatherosclerotic potential of Pangium edule leaf extract in cholesterol- and fat-enriched diet Wistar rats

Abstract

Background: Pangi leaves, from the Pangium edule plant, are rich in flavonoids and saponins. Research has shown that flavonoids can lower blood cholesterol by blocking the activity of the enzyme HMG Co-A reductase. Saponins are linked to a lower risk of atherosclerosis because they can bind to cholesterol. However, the impact of pangi on high cholesterol levels has not been well-studied. This research aimed to explore how an ethanol extract from pangi leaves affects the lipid profiles of Wistar rats on a diet high in cholesterol and fat. Methods: The study involved four groups of ten rats each. One group served as a normal control, while the second consumed a high cholesterol and fat diet. The remaining two groups ate the same diet but also received 150 mg/kg or 450 mg/kg body weight of the pangi leaf extract. After 28 days, the rats' blood was tested for total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and LDL. Results: The results showed significant differences in triglycerides and HDL levels among the groups. The pangi extract notably reduced triglycerides and increased HDL levels, even at the lower dose. It also lowered the atherogenic index and the TG/HDL ratio, both indicators of cardiovascular disease risk. These findings were supported by pathological examinations of the rats' aortas and computational analysis, which identified compounds in the pangi leaves that bind effectively to HMG-CoA reductase. Specifically, compounds such as (5.beta.) Pregnane-3,20.beta.-diol and psi.,psi.-Carotene showed strong interactions with this crucial cholesterol-producing enzyme, indicating their promise as potent agents to reduce cholesterol levels. The identified compounds exhibit favorable characteristics akin to drugs, enhancing their prospects as candidates for therapeutic use. Conclusion: The collective findings of this research indicate that the ethanol extract of pangi leaves positively influences the lipid profile in rats on a diet high in cholesterol and fat, suggesting its potential utility as a novel treatment option for hyperlipidemia.