Effect of Ethanolic Crude Extracts of Nauclea latifolia Smith (Rubiaceae) Leaves, Fruits, Stem and Root Barks on the Liver of Chinchilla Rabbit

Abstract

Aims: To determine the histopathological and biochemical effects of ethanolic crude extracts of Nauclea latifolia leaves, fruits, stem and root barks on the liver of Chinchilla rabbit. Study Design: This is an experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: The study, which lasted for 10 weeks, was carried out at the Animal House of the College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi campus. Methodology: Twenty four (24) Chinchilla rabbits of both sexes were grouped into 4 (A-D). Group A-C received, orally, 100 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively per day. Group D (control group) received equal volume of normal saline, in addition to normal diet and water. Blood and tissue specimens were collected under chloroform euthanasia after 60 days. Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and Aspartate transaminase (AST) activities were determined using Reitman- Frankel method. Liver samples were processed for Haematoxylin and Eosin staining method. Results: Decreased mean body weight values of the rabbits treated with 250 mg/kg, for 60 days was observed. The rabbits treated with 250 mg/kg for 20 days, 40 days and 60 days showed significant elevation of AST and ALT activities. However, significant decrease in AST activity was observed when the animals treated for 40 days were compared with those treated for 60 days. There was no significant change in serum ALP in all the groups. Groups B and C treated for 60 days showed hepatic injury. Conclusion: Crude ethanolic extract of N. latifolia fruits, leaf, stem bark and root bark possess the tendency to adversely affect hepatic functions.