Activity In Wistar Rats Research Articles

Retraction: Age Related Changes in NAD+ Metabolism Oxidative Stress and Sirt1 Activity in Wistar Rats.

Retraction: Age Related Changes in NAD+ Metabolism Oxidative Stress and Sirt1 Activity in Wistar Rats.

Wound healing activity of Ipomoea staphylina leaves extract in Wistar rats

Wound repair is the practice of repairing the skin and other soft tissues after an injury. An inflammatory response is activated after an injury, and cells below the dermis (deepest skin layer) begin to produce more collagen (connective tissue). A scientific assessment was made for the wound-healing potential of Ipomoea staphylina leaves extract, using ethanol. The crude extract was made into a 2.5% and 5% (w/w) ointment and tested for wound healing activity in Wistar rats using excision and incision wound models. In the excision wound model, the period of epithelialization was reduced and an increase in wound contraction rate was observed in the extract treated groups (III and IV). On the tenth day, tissue from the excision wound area was taken and processed for the assessment of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α), and it was found that there was a notable decrease in the TNF-α concentration in the extract-treated animals. In an incision wound model, the breaking strength was significantly increased in animals treated with 2.5% and 5% (w/w) ointment of I. staphylina leaves extract. The extract significantly promoted fibroblast migration in an in vitro experiment (scratch assay), which may have been caused by the presence of flavonoids.

Biochemical, immunological markers, histology and ultrastructural changes of open wound healing in rats treated with ethyl acetate extract of Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes

Research on plant-based wound healing agents has been one of the current developing areas in modern biomedical science. This study aimed to assess the effects of ethyl acetate extract of Zingiber zerumbet rhizome (ZZRE) on open wound healing activity in Wistar rats. Ninety male Wistar rats (220–320 g) were divided into three groups treated with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) (negative control), Solcoseryl gel (positive control), and 10 % ZZRE (treatment group), respectively. Six circular full-skin thickness wounds of 6.0 mm in diameter were induced bilaterally on the dorsal surface of each rat. Six rats were sacrificed on Day-1, Day-3, Day-6, Day-10 and Day-14 respectively from each group after wound induction. All data obtained are considered statistically significant at p < 0.05. Macroscopic observations showed that the 10 % ZZRE treated wounds healed faster compared to other groups. The wound closure percentage showed that the wound treated with 10 % ZZRE is significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the PBS group on Day-6, Day-10 and Day-14. Protein levels of the 10 % ZZRE group decreased significantly at Day-1 compared to the PBS group and significantly (p < 0.05) higher at Day-14 compared to both control groups. The hexosamine and uronic acid levels of the 10 % ZZRE group showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease on Day-14. Conversely, hydroxyproline levels showed significant (p < 0.05) increase starting from Day-3 until Day-14. As for the immunological markers, the level of total TGF-β1 of the 10 % ZZRE group was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the PBS group on Day-14, whereas the level of IL-10 on the wound tissue of the 10 % ZZRE group was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the PBS group on Day-1 but significantly (p < 0.05) higher on Day-10 and Day-14 compared to both control groups. Histological observation showed that the wounds treated with 10 % ZZRE infiltrated with lesser inflammatory cells while collagen deposition was denser as compared to both control groups. Based on the result obtained, it is clearly proven that treatment of 10 % ZZRE on open wound healing in rats, showed that the extract was effective in healing the wound and accelerated the healing process. Therefore, the 10 % ZZRE tested has the potential to be developed as an alternative wound healing agent in the future.

Evaluation of Anxiolytic Activity of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers Using Actophotometer Test in Wistar Rats.

Introduction Anxiety disorders are common mental illnesses impacting quality of life, with current treatments like benzodiazepines andselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)facing limitations due to side effects. Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), used primarily for hypertension, have shown potential neuropsychiatric benefits, including anxiolytic effects. This study explores the anxiolytic effects of two ARBs, telmisartan and losartan, by evaluating locomotor activity in Wistar rats, aiming to identify new treatment options for anxiety through modulation of the renin-angiotensin system. Aim To evaluate the anxiolytic activity of telmisartan and losartan in experimental Wistar rats. Materials and methods The study was carried out afterconsent was obtained from the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC). The rats were divided into four groups: group 1 (control group) received distilled water (2 ml/kg), group 2 (diazepam 2 mg/kg group) received diazepam (2 mg/kg), group 3 (telmisartan 5 mg/kg group) received telmisartan (5 mg/kg), and group 4 (losartan 5 mg/kg group) received losartan (5 mg/kg). The actophotometer test, which measures the locomotor activity levels of rats, was utilized to evaluate their anxiolytic activity. The percent decrease in locomotor activity was calculated for statistical evaluation. Results Our investigation found that the telmisartan 5 mg/kg and losartan 5 mg/kg groups had considerable anxiolytic activity (p<0.05) compared to the control group, and it was comparableto the diazepam 2 mg/kg (p>0.05) group. Conclusion The findings of our study indicate that ARBs, specifically telmisartan 5 mg/kg and losartan 5 mg/kg, exhibit potential anxiolytic effects, evidenced by a significant reduction in locomotor activity in the actophotometer test. These results imply that ARBs could be considered as possible therapeutic agents for anxiety, providing a new perspective on their use beyond traditional cardiovascular applications.

Evaluation of hematinic effects of aqueous leaf extract of hibiscus acetosella welw. Ex hiern on phenyl hydrazine-induced anemia in wistar rats

Ethnopharmacological information indicates that the leaves of Hibiscus acetosella Welw. ex. Hiern are used in the treatment of anemia in western and central Uganda. In this study, the aqueous leaf extract of Hibiscus acetosella Welw. ex. Hiern was tested for its haematinic activity in Wistar rats. Phenylhydrazine (PHZ- 4 mg/kg, IP) was used to induce anemia in rats for a period of two weeks. Animals were grouped into six groups (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6); each group had six rats. Group 1 (negative control), group 2 (positive control), group 3 were treated with FeSO4, and groups 4, 5, and 6 were treated with different doses of the extract (1000 mg/kg, 2000 mg/kg, and 4000 mg/kg, respectively). Screening of phytochemicals was performed, and acute toxicity study was carried out according to the Lorke's experiment 1993. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the aqueous leaf extract of Hibiscus acetosella Welw. ex. Hiern contains tannins, flavonoids, diterpenes, steroids, and saponins. The aqueous leaf extract of Hibiscus acetosella Welw. ex. Hiern exhibits haematinic effects. Keywords: Hematinic effects, Aqueous leaf extract, Hibiscus acetosella Welw. ex Hiern, Phenyl hydrazine induced anemia, and Wistar rats.

An evaluation of the antioxidant capacities of Dillenia excelsa extracts and its wound healing activity in Wistar rats

An evaluation of the antioxidant capacities of Dillenia excelsa extracts and its wound healing activity in Wistar rats

Evaluation of Medicago sativa ethanol leaf extract for antidiarrheal activity in Wistar rats

Aim: Medicago sativa leaf is traditionally used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in Nigeria. This research investigates the in vivo antidiarrheal activity of M. sativa (Alfalfa) leaf extract in Wistar rats. Method: The study employed three models: castor oil-induced diarrhea, gastrointestinal motility (charcoal meal), and castor oil-induced intestinal fluid accumulation. The phytochemical analysis as well acute toxicity tests were carried out in the leaf extract. Results: The results demonstrate a dose-dependent and significant antidiarrheal effect of M. sativa leaf extract. In the castor oil-induced diarrhea model, the extract reduced fecal frequency, delayed onset, and lowered severity, with the highest effect at 600 mg/kg compared to a positive control (Loperamide). Gastrointestinal motility was inhibited by the extract in a dose-dependent manner, achieving maximum effect at 600 mg/kg, comparable to atropine sulfate. The castor oil-induced intestinal fluid accumulation model revealed a significant decrease in fluid volume at 600 mg/kg, exhibiting a potent inhibitory effect. The oral LD50 values obtained were greater than 5000 mg/kg in rats Conclusion: This study provides compelling evidence of Medicago sativa leaf extract's potential as an antidiarrheal agent in Wistar rats. Further investigations could explore its mechanism of action and safety profile, contributing valuable insights to the development of novel antidiarrheal therapies.

Role of Nitric Oxide, TNF-α and Caspase-3 in Lead Acetate-Exposed Rats Pretreated with Aqueous Rosmarinus officinalis Leaf Extract.

Lead (Pb) toxicity is a worldwide significant public health challenge causing several neurological disorders. Reports indicate that plants rich in antioxidants, such as Rosmarinus officinalis (RO), can counteract Pb accumulation and its toxicity in the brain. Due to a dearth of literature evidence demonstrating the protective activity of RO against Pb toxicity, this study investigated such activity in Wistar rats. Thirty-six Wistar rats were allocated into six groups (n=6), namely I (control), II (lead acetate [Pb]; 100 mg/kg b.w.), III (100 mg/kg of RO and 100 mg/kg of Pb), IV (200 mg/kg of RO and 100 mg/kg of Pb), V (100 mg/kg b.w. of RO) and VI (200 mg/kg b.w. of RO). After 28 days, neurobehavioural, antioxidant, lipid peroxidation, apoptotic and inflammatory activities as well as the histology of the cerebellum were evaluated. Body weight, locomotion and exploration as well as antioxidant enzymes were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in Pb-exposed rats when compared to control. Conversely, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and caspase-3 activities were significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated in the Pb-exposed rats when compared to control. These parameters were, however, significantly (p<0.05) attenuated in the RO-pretreated rats when compared to Pb-exposed rats. Cerebellar histology of the Pb-exposed rats showed severe degeneration of the Purkinje cells whereas the RO-pretreated rats showed better cerebellar architecture. These findings demonstrate that the neuroprotective activity of RO is facilitated via its effective antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects.

Isolation of curcumin from Lakadong turmeric of Meghalaya and development of its PLGA-Cur-NS loaded nanogel for potential anti-inflammatory and cutaneous wound healing activity in Wistar rats

BackgroundLakadong turmeric (LKD) from Meghalaya, India, boasts high curcumin levels, but lacks scientific study. Moreover, Curcumin's poor solubility hinders its clinical use in inflammation and wound healing. This study isolated curcumin from LKD, forming a PLGA nanosuspension-based nanogel and explored for its potential anti-inflammatory and cutaneous wound healing activity in Wistar rats.MethodologyThe LKD rhizome was successively extracted by soxhlet using chloroform, hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol and their total phenolic content and antioxidant property was determined. Chloroform extract was loaded in column chromatography and curcumin was isolated, purified and characterized by FTIR, NMR, DSC, MS and HPTLC and its purity was analyzed by HPLC. The isolated curcumin was loaded into PLGA nanosuspensions by nanoprecipitation method followed by conversion to carbopol based Nanogel. The nanogels were characterized physicochemically and the drug permeation was observed. The optimized nanogel was evaluated for its anti-inflammatory and cutaneous wound healing activity by carrageenan-induced paw edema and excision wound model in albino Wistar rats divided in five groups and treated with plain carbopol gel, marketed turmeric cream and Cur NS nanogel (0.6% w/w equivalent curcumin each).ResultsResults depicted that the chloroform extract showed the presence of a considerable amount of phenolics with 50-60% yield of curcumin. HPLC analysis depicted that the LKD curcumin had higher purity when compared to standard curcumin. Homogenous curcumin nanosuspensions were obtained with size 150 ± 50 nm and PDI 0.2 ± 0.1. The Cur-NS-nanogel showed satisfactory physical property, drug loading and stability. Ex vivo permeation studies in rats showed controlled permeation with steady state flux of 21.28 ± 0.23 µg/cm2/hr in 24 h. Topical intervention with Cur-NS-nanogel (0.6%) significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the paw volume by 43.97% in the 3rd hour and 72.19% on the 4th hour. Furthermore, the cutaneous wound healing property of Cur-NS-nanogel when compared to negative control rats showed a substantial (p < 0.05) reduction in the percentage wound contraction from 5 to 20th days.ConclusionLKD showed high curcumin content with significant antioxidant effects. LKD curcumin loaded into stable nanogel depicted safe and controlled skin permeability with promising cutaneous wound healing and anti-inflammatory activity in experimental rats.

Harnessing the Potential of Litchi Fruit Pericarp for Wound Mitigation in Wistar Albino Rats

Background: The use of medicinal plants is vital in the treatment of several ailments. Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) fruit pericarp is the main by-product of litchi processing. Litchi fruit pericarp contains a significant amount of polyphenolic compounds, which have been found to have a broad variety of biological activities. Methods: Litchi pericarp was produced in 10% (w/w) hydrogel and tested for wound healing activities in Wistar rats using an excision wound model. Wound healing activity was evaluated using wound-healing rate, inflammatory cytokine levels, oxidative stress, collagen hydroxyproline and hexosamine concentration, and macroscopic and histological evidence. Results: The results show that pericarp extract has significant wound healing potential, which is indicated by better wound closure, tissue regeneration, and histological characteristics. Litchi pericarp hydrogel boosted the skin's hydroxyproline content, antioxidant capacity, wound contraction, and anti-inflammatory potential by regulating the production of the cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. This supports the effectiveness of litchi pericarp's wound-healing qualities. Conclusion: Litchi pericarp hydrogel promoted wound recovery in rats, encouraging its application in wound alleviation.

Preparation and Evaluation of Primidone Solid Lipid Nanoparticle for Alleviating Seizure Activity in Wistar Rats

Introduction: In order to increase primidone’s anticonvulsant action, the study set out to manufacture it in solid lipid nanoparticle form (PRI-SLN). Method: Microemulsification and ultrasonication procedures were used to create 17 PRI-SLN formulations. Results: The PRI-SLN displayed a high entrapment efficiency (46.37 ± 2.42% to 81.82 ± 1.21%), as well as small particle size (149.9 ± 6.72 to 188.8 ± 5.25 nm). According to the in-vitro release study, PRI from SLNs releases more slowly than PRI by itself. The thermal analysis showed the drug’s compatibility with other substances and its presence in the more soluble amorphous state. Following a lethal and chronic dosage of picrotoxin, the PRI-SLN exhibited a higher anticonvulsant efficacy, according to in-vivo research on rats (p&lt; 0.05). Conclusion: SLN with stronger anticonvulsant action can be made from PRI.

LC‐MS based metabolite profiling, in‐vitro antioxidant and in‐vivo antihyperlipidemic activity ofNigella sativaextract

AbstractThe aim of this study was to identify the bioactive phytoconstituents present in the aqueous extract ofNigella sativaand also, to evaluate the antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activity in Wistar rats. The LC‐MS/MS analysis was assessed for the determination of different bioactive compounds present inN. sativaextract. Total phenolic and flavonoid content were determined by using validated Folin‐Ciocalteu and Aluminum chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. The in‐vitro antioxidant and in‐vivo antihyperlipidemic activity in Wistar rats were also evaluated. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extract showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, glycosides, and amino acids in the aqueous extract. The bioactive compounds of the aqueous extract were identified through LC‐MS/MS analysis. The in‐vitro antioxidant activity ofN. sativashowed the highest free radical scavenging capacity in DPPH, H2O2, and OH radical scavenging assays with IC50values 11.916 ± 2.828, 30.294 ± 13.790, and 12.048 ± 2.828 µg/mL, respectively. Evaluation of antihyperlipidemic activity of extract in Wistar rats showed that a high dose (800 mg/kg) of extract significantly decreased total cholesterol (TC) 71.76 ± 6.91 mg/dL, TG 83.6 ± 8.09 mg/dL, low‐density lipoproteins (LDL‐c) 33.86 ± 6.05 mg/dL, very low‐density lipoproteins (VLDL‐c) 16.72 ± 1.61 mg/dL level in blood. However, the HDL‐C level was significantly improved (21.18 ± 1.80 mg/dL) as compared to HFD‐induced control rats (11.76 ± 1.14 mg/dL) after 28 days of treatment. Also, at the same dose, animal body weight was also decreased to 162.6 ± 16.40 g compared with control 184.4 ± 10.24 g. The aqueous extract ofN. sativawas found to be an effective natural source of antioxidant and hypolipidemic agents. This activity was attributed to the presence of diverse bioactive compounds in it.

Ex-vivo Antispasmodic and In vivo Anti Salmonella Potential of Rumex bequaertii Leaves Extracts

Objective: The present study aimed at investigating the acute toxicity, the ex-vivo antispasmodic potential of aqueous and ethanolic Rumex bequaertii leaves extracts in isolated ileum fragment and antimicrobial activity of Rumex bequaertii ethanolic leaves extract in animal models infected with Salmonella typhi.&#x0D; Methods: Acute toxicity using a single dose of ethanolic extract of Rumex bequaertii at 2000 mg/kg was administered to female rats and effects were observed during 14 days. Different cumulative concentrations of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Rumex bequaertii leaves were tested for spontaneous contractions and potassium chloride-induced contractions in rat ileum fragment. Different doses of the ethanolic extract of Rumex bequaertii leaves were tested for antidiarrheal activity in Wistar rats infected with Salmonella typhi.&#x0D; Results: Rats given the single dose of Rumex bequaertii ethanolic extract showed no significant changes in body and organs weights compared to control rats. Administration of extracts at all tested concentrations resulted to inhibition of ileum contractions. Inhibition of spontaneous contractions of ileum fragment by aqueous extract ranging from 24.48 to 90.19 %, for 2.91, to 15.25 mg/mL, respectively, while ethanolic extract was from 42.00 to 83.72 %, for 0.99, to 5.66 mg/mL, respectively. Concerning potassium chloride-induced contraction, aqueous extract concentrations (from 2.91 to 15.25 mg/mL) inhibited contractions from 31.46 to 67.23 %; the ethanolic extract (0.99 to 5.66 mg/mL) inhibited from 38.25, to 82.60 % and verapamil from 14.31 to 80.70 %, at 0.06 to 0.34 mg/mL. After administration of ethanolic extract, all tested doses resulted to reduction of Salmonella typhi load in stools and blood, with activities being duration and dose dependent. Conclusion: The lethal dose 50 of the Rumex bequaertii ethanol extract is greater than 2000 mg/kg. Aqueous and ethanolic leaves’ extracts of Rumex bequaertii possess ex-vivo antispasmodic and ethanolic leaves extract of Rumex bequaertii possess antimicrobial activity.

Nanocurcumin Restores Arsenic-Induced Disturbances in Neuropharmacological Activities in Wistar Rats

The present study was carried out to examine the ameliorative potential of nanocurcumin against arsenic induced (sub-chronic) alterations in central nervous system in male Wistar rats. Nanocurcumin was synthesised and the hydrodynamic diameter, zeta potential and particle size were~76.60 nm, (-) 30 mV and 95nm, respectively. Experimental rats sub-chronically exposed to sodium (meta) arsenite (As; 10 mg.kg-1; 70 days; p.o) induced significant (p&lt;0.05) reduction in superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione and favoured free radical generation and induced lipid peroxidation in brain tissue. The exposure resulted in significant (p&lt;0.05) decrease in voluntary- and involuntary motor activities and enhanced anxiety levels. However, experimental rats receiving nanocurcumin (15 mg.kg-1; p.o) showed significant (p&lt;0.05) recovery in enzymatic - and non-enzymatic antioxidant defence system and restoration of redox balance and overcome arsenic induced depression in motor activities and elevated anxiety levels. Further, Arsenic induced elevation in pro-inflammatory cytokines, cyclooxygenase-2 activity and prostaglandin-E2 in brain and angiotensin-II levels (plasma) was significantly (p&lt;0.05) ameliorated by nanocurcumin. Additionally, quantitative real -time polymerase chain reaction revealed a fivefold decrease in Nox2 expression in brain following nanocurcumin administration. Thus, the study concludes that nanocurcumin can serve as a potential therapeutic candidate to counter arsenic induced redox imbalance and neuropharmacological disturbances and there exists a vast scope to exploit its utility after appropriate clinical modelling.

Atranorin, a Secondary Metabolite of Lichens, Exhibited Anxiolytic/Antidepressant Activity in Wistar Rats.

Atranorin (ATR) is one of lichens' many known secondary metabolites. Most current studies have investigated the various effects of ATR in vitro and only sporadically in vivo. The latest data indicate that ATR may have anxiolytic/antidepressive effects. This study aimed to analyze the potential of ATR in a depression-like state in male Wistar rats. Pregnant females were stressed by restricting their mobility in the final week of pregnancy three times a day for 45 min each, for three following days. After birth, progeny aged 60 days was stressed repeatedly. The male progeny was divided into three groups as follows: CTR group as a healthy control (n = 10), DEP group as a progeny of restricted mothers (n = 10), and ATR group as a progeny of restricted mothers, treated daily for one month with ATR (n = 10; 10 mg/kg of body weight, p.o.). Our results show that ATR acts as an antioxidant and markedly changes animal behavior. Concomitantly, hippocampal neurogenesis increases in the hilus and subgranular zone, together with the number of NeuN mature neurons in the hilus and CA1 regions. Our results indicate a potential antidepressant/anxiolytic effect of ATR. However, further studies in this area are needed.

Antidiarrheal Activity of Dialium guineense Willd Fruit Pulp in Wistar Rats.

Objective This study is aimed at evaluating the effects of Dialium guineense Willd fruit pulp powder on diarrhea induced by castor oil in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods Three different tests were carried out. A preventive test by administration of a single dose of 250, 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 mg/kg before the induction of diarrhea by castor oil. Another preventive test after repeated administration of Dialium guineense at 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg/day for 8 days, before the induction of diarrhea, was done. The third test was a curative test with a single dose of 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg after the induction of diarrhea by castor oil. Results D. guineense fruit pulp at 1000, 2000, and 4000 mg/kg administered before the induction of diarrhea, has significantly delayed diarrhea; reduced the frequency of defecation, reduced the amount of diarrheal stools, and also reduced the purging index, with a degree of inhibition comparable to that of loperamide. But the water content of the stools of the group treated with D. guineense does not change significantly compared to the controls. D. guineense has reduced significantly from 500 mg/kg the diarrhea induced by castor oil after 8 days of treatment. It appears that the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg, which were not effective with the single-dose preventive test, significantly delayed diarrhea; reduces the frequency of diarrheal stools and also reduces the purging index. D. guineense administered, after the induction of diarrhea, by castor oil has significantly reduced the diarrhea from 250 mg/kg. Conclusion The fruit pulp of D. guineense has showed antidiarrheal activities in Wistar rats by reducing the frequency of defecation, the amount of diarrheal fecal matter emitted as well as the water content. It also delayed the onset of diarrhea and significantly reduced the purging index like loperamide.

Effects of concurrent food-chain simulation of cadmium and crude petroleum oil pollutions on amylase activity in Wistar rats

The bioavailability levels of cadmium (Cd) and (CPO) in water and polluted food has become worrisome over the years. The study was aimed at investigating the effects of concurrent food-chain simulation of cadmium and crude petroleum oil pollution on amylase activity in Wistar rats. Simulation of both Cd and CPO pollution was done in the water in which catfish were housed for 1 month at a daily dose of 4 and 0.8 ppm respectively. The fish were then used as source of protein in formulation of diet for feeding rats for 1 and 2 months respectively. The rats were granted access to drinking water at will, weighed at the end of the feeding periods and sacrificed followed by removal of the duodenal portion of the small intestine. Weight gain and intestinal/body weight ratio was measured and the activity of amylase assayed. The results showed a non-significant difference (p ˃ 0.05) in the intestinal/body weight ratio and amylase activity after 1 month of simulated pollution. While, there was a significant decrease (p &lt; 0.05) in weight gain and amylase activity after 2 months. Cd and CPO mixture therefore, has a deleterious effect on the environment and subsequently animals especially man as the final consumer in the food-chain.

Alanine Aminotransferase and Aspertate Aminotransaminase Activities in Wistar Rats Fed with Musa paradisiaca (Plantain) Stem Pulp in Aluminium Chloride Induced Hepatic Oxidative Stress

In this study, the effect of Musa paradisiaca (plantain) stem pulp on aluminium chloride (AlCl3) induced hepatotoxicity was studied. Fifteen (15) healthy female wistar rats after acclimatization for two weeks were randomly distributed to three (3) groups, with five (5) rats in each group. Group 1 served as control and received as control pelletized growers feed and distilled water throughout the experiment (14 days). Group 2 received 100mg/kg/body weight (b.w.) of aluminium chloride and was fed with pelletized growers feed and distilled water for 14 days and group 3 received 100mg/kgb.w of aluminium chloride and 2mL/kg of the juice gotten from M. paradisiaca and were also allowed free access to feed and water ad libitum for 14 days. Blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture and analyzed for AST, ALT, MDA and SOD. Results revealed that there was a significant increase in AST and ALT levels respectively from 67.83±1.39 to 173.40±0.81 and 43.73±1.00 to 128.24±0.68 after treatment with AlCl3 compared to control while administration of M. paradisiaca extract ameliorated the adverse effects of AlCl3 when compared to AlCl3 treated groups from 173.40±0.81 to 72.40±1.71 and 128.24±0.68 to 45.83±1.22 respectively. There was a significant decrease (P&lt;0.05) in SOD level from 6.04± 0.49 to 2.56±0.86 of AlCl3 compared to control and a significant increase (P&lt;0.05) from 2.56±0.86 to 6.00±1. 56 in SOD level was observed in M. paradisiaca treated groups when compared to AlCl3 treated group. It was also observed that there was a significant (P&lt;0.05) from 401.09±0.10 to 1207.98±1.39 in MDA level after treatment with AlCl3 compared to control while there was a significant decrease (P&lt;0.05) from 1207.98±1.39 to 388.83±31.15 in MDA level of M. paradisiaca treated groups when compared to the AlCl3 treated groups. It was observed that M. paradisiaca showed a mitigating effect on aluminium chloride-induced hepatotoxicity and thus justifying the hepatoprotective property of M. paradisiaca.

Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Red Ginger Extracts on Aphrodisiac Activity

One of the breeding processes is influenced by reproduction factors. Herbal therapy can relieve male infertility, such as red ginger. This study aimed to determine the effect of red ginger extract on aphrodisiac activity. Methods: This study was designed to evaluate the effect of red ginger extract on aphrodisiac activity in Wistar rats. Twenty-five male Wistar rats and fifteen two-month-old females weighing 150-200 g were purchased and placed in cages at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Muhammadiyah Surabaya.

Ethanol leaf extract of Dialium guineense produces anti-diarrhoeal and gastrointestinal motility slowing activities in Wistar rats

Dialium guineense leaves have been traditionally used for the treatment of diarrhoeal diseases in Nigeria. The study was conducted to evaluate the anti-diarrhoeal and gastrointestinal motility slowing effects of the ethanol leaf extract of D. guineense in Wistar rats. The anti-diarrhoeal and gastrointestinal motility slowing effects of the ethanol leaf extract of D. guineense were evaluated using castor oil-induced diarrhoeal model, charcoal meal, and anti-enteropooling tests in Wistar rats. The test groups received various doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of the extract whereas positive controls received Loperamide (4 mg/kg) or Atropine (5 mg/kg) and negative controls received Normal Saline (10 ml/kg). The phytochemical screening as well as the acute toxicity test of the extract was also performed. The extract produced a dose-dependent significant reduction in the watery nature and frequency of fecal droppings in the castor oil-induced diarrhea. On gastrointestinal transit time and enteropooling, the extract also dose-dependently reduced the small intestinal transit of charcoal meal and intestinal fluid volume in a manner comparable to 5 mg/kg of atropine sulphate and 4 mg/kg of loperamide. The acute toxicity study on the extract revealed an oral LD50 value greater than 5000 mg/kg in mice. The phytochemical constituents detected in the extract were tannins, phenols, resin, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, and glycosides. The findings from this study showed that the ethanol leaf extract of D. guineense possesses anti-diarrhoeal properties and thus supports the traditional application of the leaf extract in the treatment of diarrhea in Nigeria.