Histopathological and Biochemical Effects of Methanol and Aqueous Extracts of the Leaf of Irvingia Gabonensis (African wild mango) on the liver of Albino Wistar Rat

Abstract

Background: The use of Irvingia gabonensis locally for different purposes from eating down to drinking its extracts and concoctions for treating various ailments has been a common practice over the ages. The liver is a very vital metabolic organ and the central site for food and drug metabolism and subsequent excretion. In that case, the understanding of the effects of these foods and drugs both orthodox and herbal is ever invaluable both to the clinicians and the patients. This research work aims to investigate the effects of its leaf extract on the liver using histological and biochemical parameters. Methods: The experimental rats (n=20) used were divided into five (5) groups of four (4) each. Group one served as control and received only water and standard pellets. Groups two and three were administered with the methanolic extract of 150 mg/ kg and 300 mg/kg respectively. Groups four and five were administered with the aqueous extract of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg respectively. The liver samples were harvested, fixed and processed in an automated tissue processor. The blood sample obtained through retro-orbital puncture was made to clot. The serum was then used to analyze the ALT, AST, ALP and Bilirubin content of the liver. Results were obtained and analyzed statistically, showing a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the AST and ALP levels in groups three (3) and five (5). The Serum bilirubin and ALT levels showed insignificant (p > 0.05) increases in all the groups. The photomicrograph indicates mild fibrosis and sinusoidal dilations and cellular infiltrations in groups three and five with no visual changes in the rest of the groups. Conclusion: The findings suggest that at high doses of both methanolic and aqueous extracts (300 and 500mg/kg respectively), the leaf extract is mildly toxic to the liver.