Comparative Hepatic Effects of Hippocratea africana Root Bark Extract on Female and Male Albino Wistar Rats

Aim: To compare the effects of Hippocretea africana root bark extract on liver function biomarkers of female and male albino Wistar rats.

Study Design: 48 albino Wistar rats weighing 163-227 gms consisting 24 females and 24 males were randomly distributed into 4 groups of six animals each on sex basis. Group I served as normal control and were given 1 ml of distilled water. Groups II, III and IV were administered 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg body weight respectively of the extract by oral intubation.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Uyo, Uyo. The duration of the study was 14 days.

Methodology: Liver function biomarkers (AST, ALT, ALP and GGT) and Oxidative Stress markers (catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and MDA concentrations were assayed using standard procedures. Histopathological examinations of liver organs were also carried out using standard methods.

Results: Generally, there were increases in ALT and AST activities for both female and male groups II and III extract treated rats while test group IV recorded decreased activities for the female compared with the control. AST and ALP activities were significantly (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01) higher in male rats with exception of AST for group IV and GGT for groups II and III compared with the control. Treatments with extract significantly (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01) increased the activities of SOD and CAT and also significantly (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01) increased MDA concentrations in female and male rats.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that Hippocratea africana root bark extract has a mild toxic effect on liver tissues as seen from the concentrations of liver function enzymes, and the histopathological examination. The increased activities of SOD and CAT and MDA concentrations may probably be a way of first line defence. Thus, long-term administration of the herb may not be advised in the males even with its good antiplasmodial property.