Meta-inhibition of ocular and gastrointestinal dysfunctions by phenolic-rich fraction of Croton zambsicus leaves in a rat model exposed to chronic mixed metals

Abstract

Purpose

This study was aimed at investigating the protective effect of antioxidant-rich fraction of Croton zambsicus (C-ZAMB) leaves on ocular-gastrointestinal dysfunction in rats exposed to environmental mixed-metal (EOMABRSL).

Materials and Methods

The rats were divided into five (n = 10) groups. Group I designates the control which received 0.5 mL of distilled water. Group II and III received 0.5 mL of EOMABRSL for 98 days (non-withdrawal) and 70 days (withdrawal for 28 days), respectively. Group IV received 0.5 mL EOMABRSL for 70 days and 400 mg/kg C-ZAMB fraction for 28 days. Group V received 400 mg/kg C-ZAMB only for 28 days via oral route.

Results

Exposure of the animals to EOMARBSL for 98 days and 70 days significantly up-regulated the activities of ocular-gastrointestinal aldolase-reductase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase and eco-5¹-nucleotidase with corresponding depletion of lactate dehydrogenase activity. Furthermore, exposure to EOMABRSL significantly altered the antioxidant proteins with up-production of MDA content. Apparently, management with 400 mg/kg C-ZAMB fraction significantly inhibited the key markers linked with ocular-gastrointestinal disorders.

Conclusion

Hence, this study underscores the biochemical mechanisms for managing ocular-gastrointestinal lesions by 400 mg/kg C-ZAMB fraction on exposure to mixture of environmental metals.

Keywords:

• Croton zambsicus
• chronic mixed metal
• ocular-gastrointestinal
• disorder
• meta-inhibition
• rats

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).