Alkaloid Fraction of Cyperus Esculentus Tubers Reversed Lead-induced Cerebral Toxicity via Modulation of Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Markers

Hassan Luqman Adepoju¹, Anyanwu Godson Emeka², Jacks Tamunotonye³, Esom Emmanuel², Ojo Foluso Olamide¹ Muhammad Baba Musa⁴

1. Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ilesa, Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria
2. Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria
3. Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
4. Department of Medical Services, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Lead (Pb) is a toxic heavy metal that induces organ injury with the nervous system being its primary target. This study evaluated the therapeutic potentials of the alkaloid fraction of Cyperus esculentus on Pb-induced neurotoxicity. Twenty female Wistar rats were assigned into four groups (A-D), n=5. Group A was administered normal saline, while groups B, C, and D were treated with lead at 30 mg/kg body weight. Groups C and D were administered Pb at 50 and 100 mg/kg respectively. Treatments were administered daily by gavage via an oral cannula for 28 days. The results showed a significant increase in the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA), Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α, Interleukin (IL) -6, and interleukin-1β and a decrease in the activities of Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase, and Glutathione in group B compared to control (group A). However, compared to group B, a significant increase in the activities of SOD, catalase and GSH was observed in groups C and D. Erythrocyte, leucocyte, and thrombocyte count decreased significantly in group B compared to A and increased in groups C and D compared to B. Result of cerebral cortex histomorphology revealed mild distortion of the neuronal architecture in group B compared to A, while compared to B these changes were reversed in groups C and D. This study provides insights into the possible neuroprotective effects of alkaloid fraction of Cyperus esculentus. However, more studies are required to determine its benefits in humans.

KEYWORDS: Alkaloids, Cyperus esculentus, Heavy Metals, Neurotoxicity, Plumbum