Protective Effects of Flavonoids-rich and Saponins-rich Extracts from Tiger Nuts and Date Fruits on Prostate Histoarchitechture in Aluminum-exposed Wistar Rats

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the histological effects of flavonoid and saponin fractions from Cyperus esculentus (tiger nuts) and Phoenix dactylifera (date fruits) on the prostate gland of Wistar rats exposed to aluminum chloride, focusing on their potential protective properties against aluminum-induced toxicity. Study Design: A randomized experimental study involving twenty-five male Wistar rats divided into five groups. Groups were treated with normal saline (control), aluminum chloride, and different combinations of flavonoid and saponin extracts for 28 days. Place and Duration: Conducted at the animal breeding facility of the College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, over a month. Methods: Male Wistar rats were acclimatized for seven days, then assigned to five treatment groups. Flavonoids and saponins were extracted from Cyperus esculentus and Phoenix dactylifera. The groups received oral administration of extracts and aluminum chloride once daily for 28 days. Prostate tissues were collected post-treatment and processed with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) for histological evaluation. Results: Histological analysis showed that the control group had healthy prostate architecture, while the aluminum chloride-treated group presented significant dysplastic changes typical of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Treatment with flavonoid and saponin fractions resulted in moderate histological improvements. The combination of both extracts exhibited enhanced protective effects, stabilizing prostate architecture and preventing severe stromal hyperplasia. Conclusion: Flavonoid and saponin fractions from Cyperus esculentus and Phoenix dactylifera demonstrate protective effects against aluminum chloride-induced histopathological changes in the prostate of Wistar rats, suggesting potential dietary interventions to mitigate environmental toxin impacts on prostate health. Further investigation into their mechanisms and broader applications is warranted.