Effects of Afrormosia laxiflora extract on Wistar rat blood and tissue.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Changes in the haematology, some serum biochemical parameters and histopathology of wistar rats exposed orally to methanolic extract of the root bark of afrormosia laxiflora.
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Oladele G. M., Oricha M. I. and Ogunbodede M. A.
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Changes in the haematology, some serum biochemical parameters and histopathology of wistar rats exposed orally to methanolic extract of the root bark of afrormosia laxiflora.
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201612-7370
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The medicinal plant Afrormosia laxiflora Benth, belonging to the Leguminosae family, has a long history of being utilized for treating various ailments in both humans and animals. It's commonly employed for conditions such as pain, diarrhea, dysentery, and is also recognized for its antidepressant and anticonvulsant properties. Despite its widespread use, the plant may harbor potentially toxic compounds that can pose health risks, underscoring the necessity for thorough toxicity studies to ensure safety in medicinal applications.
Haematological Effects
The administration of the methanolic extract of Afrormosia laxiflora root bark showed some notable effects on the haematological parameters of Wistar rats. The research revealed a decrease in red blood cell count and hemoglobin concentration at higher doses; however, the total white blood cell and lymphocyte counts increased significantly. This suggests that the extract may enhance immunity as indicated by the elevated lymphocyte levels, which are crucial for the body's defense mechanisms. Despite these changes, other parameters, such as the packed cell volume, showed non-significant fluctuations, indicating that the extract's impact on overall blood health may be limited.
Serum Biochemical Changes
Biochemical analysis of serum samples further revealed significant changes correlating with the extract consumption. Notably, elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were observed, particularly at higher dosages of the extract. These enzymes are typically associated with liver function, and their increase suggests potential liver toxicity. Simultaneously, the total protein levels slightly decreased, which could indicate protein synthesis disruption or liver dysfunction. This biochemical profile emphasizes the potential hepatotoxic effects of Afrormosia laxiflora, particularly at elevated doses.
Histopathological Observations
Histopathological examinations corroborated the biochemical findings, revealing subtle yet significant pathological alterations in the liver, kidneys, and lungs of the treated rats. Notable changes included necrosis in liver tissues and degenerative conditions in kidney structures, indicating tissue damage consistent with the observed biochemical changes. Such histopathological evidence strongly supports the conclusion that high doses of the methanolic extract could compromise the integrity of these vital organs, and thus underscores the necessity for cautious therapeutic use.
Conclusion
In summary, while Afrormosia laxiflora possesses medicinal properties that may justify its use in treating various ailments, this study highlights the potential toxic effects that can arise from its consumption, particularly at high dosages. The observed haematological alterations, serum enzyme elevation, and histopathological damage point to possible hepatotoxicity and organ stress that warrant careful evaluation and monitoring. The findings advocate for safety in therapeutic applications, ensuring that the benefits do not outweigh the risks associated with the plant's use.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What effects did the methanolic extract have on Wistar rats?
The methanolic extract caused decreases in red blood cells and hemoglobin concentrations. It increased total white blood cells and lymphocytes, suggesting a potential immune response. Additionally, it elevated liver enzymes, indicating possible liver toxicity.
How was the study on Afrormosia laxiflora conducted?
The study involved administering various doses of the methanolic extract to male Wistar rats, followed by blood collection and histopathological examinations after 21 days of treatment.
What were the main findings in the haematological parameters?
Significant changes included a decrease in red blood cell counts and hemoglobin in high-dose groups. Notably, total white blood cell counts increased, which may indicate enhanced immunity.
How did the extract impact serum biochemical parameters?
The extract led to significant increases in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels in high-dose groups, indicating possible liver damage. Total protein levels slightly decreased.
What were the observed histopathological changes in the rats?
Histopathological examination showed necrosis in liver tissues, inflammatory responses in kidneys, and alterations in lung architecture, signifying potential toxic effects on these organs.
What precautions should be taken when using this extract?
Due to its toxicity at high doses, caution is advised when using Afrormosia laxiflora for therapeutic purposes to avoid potential adverse health effects.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Effects of Afrormosia laxiflora extract on Wistar rat blood and tissue.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid that circulates through the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells while removing waste products. In the context of the study, blood analysis is crucial for evaluating the physiological impact of the methanolic extract of Afrormosia laxiflora on the rats' health, particularly regarding haematological and biochemical changes.
2) Animal:
Animal refers to the living creatures used in scientific research, in this case, male Wistar albino rats. The use of animals in experimental studies allows researchers to investigate the effects of substances in a living organism, leading to insights about safety, dosage, and therapeutic potential before applying findings to humans.
3) Study (Studying):
A study is a systematic investigation designed to explore, analyze, and understand a particular phenomenon. In the article, it refers to the research focused on the effects of Afrormosia laxiflora on rats. Such studies are critical for validating traditional uses of medicinal plants and assessing their safety and efficacy.
4) Table:
A table is a structured format that presents data for easy comparison and analysis. In the context of this research, tables display haematological and serum biochemical parameters obtained from the rats, facilitating an organized presentation of results for better interpretation and understanding of the effects of the extract on health indicators.
5) Water:
Water, specifically distilled water, serves as the control or comparison substance in the study. Administering distilled water helps researchers determine the baseline physiological data against which the effects of the methanolic extract can be measured. It is essential for ensuring that changes observed are due to the extract and not other factors.
6) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition that negatively affects the body's functioning. The study investigates potential medicinal properties of Afrormosia laxiflora, which has been used traditionally to treat various diseases. Understanding its effects on health is essential for developing safe and effective treatments for ailments in both humans and animals.
7) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the scientific study of drug action and the interactions between biological systems and chemicals. In this study, it relates to understanding how the methanolic extract of Afrormosia laxiflora affects the body at various doses, contributing to knowledge on its therapeutic potential and safety profile in medicinal use.
8) Toxicology:
Toxicology is the study of the adverse effects of substances on living organisms. This research falls under toxicology as it evaluates the safety of Afrormosia laxiflora by assessing its impact on haematological and biochemical parameters. Understanding its toxicity is crucial to prevent harmful outcomes when used medicinally.
9) Medicine:
Medicine is the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. This study contributes to the field by assessing the medicinal properties of a traditional plant, Afrormosia laxiflora, and its implications for health. The findings can inform potential clinical applications or caution in its use.
10) Relative:
Relative refers to a comparison between entities or conditions. In the study, the term is used to emphasize the relative safety or efficacy of Afrormosia laxiflora against traditional pharmaceuticals. Such comparisons highlight the importance of thorough evaluation before endorsing herbal remedies as safer alternatives to synthetic medications.
11) Pain:
Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. Afrormosia laxiflora is noted for its traditional use in pain management. The study's evaluation of its effects on blood parameters and potential toxicity provides essential insight into its safety as a pain-relieving agent.
12) Veterinary medicine:
Veterinary medicine is the branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases in animals. This study is relevant to veterinary medicine since it assesses the safety and effects of a plant extract on rats, providing insights that could extend to treatments for domestic or livestock animals.
13) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical refers to the chemical compounds produced by plants, which may have biological activities. The study mentions the phytochemical constituents of Afrormosia laxiflora, emphasizing the need for understanding these compounds to evaluate their therapeutic effects, potential toxicity, and mechanisms of action when used for health benefits.
14) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the interpretation and analysis of study findings. In this research, the discussion section examines the implications of the observed changes in blood parameters due to the methanolic extract. This section is crucial for connecting results to broader scientific knowledge and making recommendations for future research.
15) Substance:
Substance refers to any material with a specific composition. In this context, it highlights the focus on the methanolic extract of Afrormosia laxiflora as a chemical entity being studied for its biological effects. Understanding the properties of this substance is key to its safety and potential medicinal use.
16) Toxicity:
Toxicity signifies the degree to which a substance can harm organisms. This study's emphasis on toxicity relates to the observed biochemical and histopathological changes in Wistar rats. Evaluating toxicity is essential for determining safe usage levels of herbal remedies in both human and veterinary settings.
17) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological effect or therapeutic action of a substance. In the study, it pertains to the various effects of Afrormosia laxiflora, such as its potential anti-inflammatory or analgesic properties. Assessing activity helps to establish the effectiveness of herbal treatments and identify appropriate therapeutic applications.
18) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a central nervous system disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. The mention of epilepsy indicates the potential neurological relevance of Afrormosia laxiflora, which has been traditionally used in its treatment. Such insights from the study can inform further research on herbal remedies for seizure management.
19) Killing (Killed):
Killing, in a biological context, typically refers to the process of eliminating pathogens or harmful cells. The study suggests that certain white blood cells are involved in the killing of foreign bodies. Understanding this process is critical for ensuring the effectiveness of the immune response in response to disease.
20) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological state characterized by excessive worry or fear. Afrormosia laxiflora's traditional use as an anxiolytic indicates its potential benefit for individuals suffering from anxiety disorders. Evaluating its effects in research helps to confirm its efficacy and safety for therapeutic use in managing anxiety.
21) Rashmi (Rasmi):
Rashmi likely refers to one of the authors or researchers mentioned in relation to the traditional uses of Afrormosia laxiflora. Citing previous studies by specific researchers underlines the importance of collaborative knowledge and literature in building a comprehensive understanding of the plant's medicinal properties and prior findings.
22) Family:
Family denotes a taxonomic rank used in biological classification. Afrormosia laxiflora belongs to the Leguminosae family, indicating its shared characteristics with other species in this group. Understanding its botanical family helps in comparing its properties with related plants, enhancing knowledge of their potential uses.
23) House:
House in this context refers to the animal house where laboratory rats were housed during the study. Proper housing conditions are crucial for ethical considerations and research reliability when maintaining animal subjects, impacting their health and the validity of the experimental results.
24) Mash (Mas):
Mash refers to crushed grain or feed given to animals. In the study, rat pellets labeled as Growers' mash are used to feed the Wistar rats, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition during the experiment. Proper feeding is essential for maintaining the health and vitality of experimental subjects.
25) Kala:
Kala likely pertains to a researcher or author who highlighted the significance of medicinal plants in traditional health care systems. Mentioning previous researchers adds credibility to the study and context for the continuing importance of exploring plant-based therapies for various ailments.
26) Cage:
A cage refers to the enclosed space where rats were kept during the study. The use of cages is necessary for animal research to contain the subjects and ensure their safety. Proper cage conditions influence the well-being of the animals and the integrity of experimental outcomes.
27) Hand:
Hand, in this context, may suggest manual involvement in experimental procedures, such as administering treatments or handling samples. The role of researchers in hands-on activities emphasizes the need for skill and care in conducting experiments to ensure accuracy and minimize stress on animal subjects.
28) Post:
Post typically refers to subsequent actions or analyses following an initial procedure. In the context of research, it signifies the actions taken after administering the extract to the rats, which includes data collection and analysis. Proper post-experimental procedures are crucial for deriving meaningful conclusions.
29) Male:
Male refers to the gender of the Wistar rats used in this study, which are male albino rats. The choice of using male animals is essential for reducing variables related to hormonal differences that could affect the outcomes, allowing for more consistent data and clearer interpretations of results.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Effects of Afrormosia laxiflora extract on Wistar rat blood and tissue.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Medicinal plant, Immune system, Digestive system, Control group, Experimental design, Oral administration, Serum biochemical parameters, Histopathological examination, Methanolic extract, Haemoglobin Concentration, Haematological parameters, Alanine Aminotransferase, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Total White Blood Cell, Cardiac puncture, Root bark, Pathological change, Wistar albino rat.