Synergistic Effects of the Alkaloids of Prosopis juliflora, Causing Multiple Organ Toxicity in Mouse Model

Abstract

The present study was aimed to identify the role of Prosopis juliflora alkaloids in animal toxicity. Total alkaloids were extracted from the leaves of this plant and were separated into various fractions. Chemical characterization of the alkaloids and its separated fractions were done by DART-MS technique, which revealed the presence of piperidine group of alkaloids. They were subjected for acute toxicity analysis for the calculation of median lethal dose (LD₅₀). LD₅₀ value obtained was in the range of 27-100 mg/kg body weight and was lowest for the total alkaloid mixture, indicating a synergistic behavior. Subacute toxicity study of the total alkaloid extract was conducted for a period of 14 days at sub-lethal dose levels of 1, 2, 5 and 10 mg/ kg body weight. Physical parameters, biochemical parameters related to organ toxicity and hematological parameters were studied as end point of evaluation. Histopathological studies were also conducted to assess any organ specific toxicity. Results obtained showed toxic symptoms in multiple organs at high doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg body weight.

Key words:

• Prosopis juliflora
• alkaloids
• DART-MS
• acute toxicity
• subacute toxicity
• histopathology