Serum Levels of HMGB1 and Liver Enzymes in Consumers of Polyherbal Medicines, Alcohol, and Cigarettes in Nnewi: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The consumption of polyherbal medicines, cigarette and alcohol is on the increase especially in Nnewi metropolis with a significant consequence on the health status of the consumers. Objectives: We evaluated the serum levels of liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP) and HMGB1in consumers of polyherbal medicine, alcohol and cigarettes and control subjects, correlated the duration, age and frequency of the consumption of polyherbal medicine, alcohol and cigarette with liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP) and HMGB1in various groups. Methods: This is a cross sectional study involving 102 participants divided into the following groups: 34 consumers of alcohol, agbo and cigarette; 34 consumers of alcohol and cigarette; and 34 non-consumers of alcohol, agbo and cigarette of the same age range 30-60yrs. The liver enzymes (ALT, ALP AST) were analyzed spectrophotometrically while High mobility group box 1 was analyzed using the ELISA method and SPSS version 26 was used for the statistical analysis. Results: The result showed that the serum levels of the liver enzymes (ALT, ALP and AST) did not differ significantly among the various groups (P > 0.05), while the level of HMGB1differed significantly among the three groups (P < 0.05). Multiple comparison showed that the mean level of HMGB1 was significantly lower in control group when compared to AAC and AC groups (P < 0.05). More so, the mean of HMGB1 was significantly higher in AAC when compared with AC (P < 0.05). There were no significant correlations between duration of intake, frequency of intake and age of participants with the various biomarkers in various groups (P > 0.05). In conclusion, HMGB1 levels increased significantly in test groups, indicating early liver injury. Thus, the study emphasizes the risk of hepatotoxicity in these individuals and the importance of early identification in order to ensure timely healthcare.