Biochemistry & Pharmacology: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Assessment of the Prophylactic Activity of the Ethanolic Extract of Momordica charantia Leaves against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Impairment in Wistar Rats

Abiola T*, Akinyode OA, Oduwole R and Egbeolu O

Background: Various parts of M. charantia have been reported to possess pharmacological properties against some diseases due to its phytochemicals constituents.

Aim: This research was aimed at assessing the prophylactic effect of the ethanol extract of M. charantia against acetaminophen-induced liver damage in Wistar rats.

Methodology: A total of sixteen rats were randomly divided into four groups with four rats in each group. The experiment spanned through fourteen days. Group 1 served as the control, group 2 received 1500 mg/kg per body weight (pbw) of acetaminophen orally throughout, group 3 received 250 mg/kg (pbw) of extract throughout while group 4 received 250 mg/kg (pbw) of extract for six days and thereafter was given 1500 mg/kg (pbw) acetaminophen orally from day 7 to day 14. The biochemical parameters of liver function- aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and protein levels were determined. In addition the following antioxidant parameters- reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were also measured from the serum of experimental animals. Histopathological changes in the liver were also investigated.

Results: Results show that the oral pre-treatment with extract of M. charantia (250 mg/kg body weight) revealed significant (P<0.05) reduction of serum activities of ALT, AST and ALP. Also, pre-treatment with the extract caused a significant (P<0.05) increase in total protein and GSH level with a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the MDA compared to the control group. Histopathological analysis confirmed the amelioration of liver damage and reduced laceration caused by acetaminophen.

Conclusion: This study substantiates the prophylactic activity of M. charantia leaf ethanol extract against liver impairment which might be attributed to some of its intrinsic phytochemical constituents which possess anti-oxidant activities.