Hepatoprotective Effect of Momordica charantia Extract against CCl4 Induced Liver Damage in Rats
S. B. Mada *
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.
H. M. Inuwa
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.
M. M. Abarshi
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.
H. A. Mohammed
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.
A. Aliyu
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: The study was aimed to evaluate Momordica charantia leaves extract for hepatoprotective effect against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatotoxicity in rats.
Methodology: A total of twenty five male rats were randomly divided into five groups of five rats each. The extract was administered orally for fifteen days at 200 and 400 mg/g body weight.
Results: The results obtained showed that, treatment with the extract significantly (P<0.05) restored liver weight to near normal. The result showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in Heamoglobin (Hb) and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) compared to toxin control group. Also treatment with the extract caused a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the activities of Alanine Transaminase (ALT), Aspartate Transaminase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatise (ALP) and the level of total bilirubin: and a significant (P<0.05) increase in total protein level compared to control group. Similarly, the extract caused a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the level of reduced Glutathione (GSH) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) and a significant (P<0.05) elevation in the activities of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) compared to toxin control group.
Conclusion: This study found that, administration of aqueous leaves extract of M. charantia ameliorated hepatotoxicity induced experimentally by CCl4.
Keywords: Oxidative stress, liver damage, Momordica charantia, protective effect, CCl4