Vernonia amygdalina extract mitigates 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced pancreatic oxidative stress and damage in Wistar rats

The chemical 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) is known to induce severe pancreatic oxidative stress through the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depletion of crucial antioxidants. This damage can lead to significant functional irregularities and histopathological changes in the pancreas. Current therapeutic strategies for DMH-induced toxicity are often limited, highlighting a critical need for novel interventions. Vernonia amygdalina, a plant rich in phytochemicals and known for its potent antioxidant properties, presents a promising natural candidate to counteract such oxidative damage.

Adult male Wistar rats were divided into groups and exposed to 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) via intraperitoneal injection to induce pancreatic toxicity. Animals then received oral administration of V. amygdalina ethanol extract at two doses: 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg. Treatment occurred both before (pre-treatment) and after (post-treatment) DMH exposure. Pancreatic tissues were subsequently harvested and subjected to comprehensive biochemical analysis to assess oxidative stress markers and histopathological examination to evaluate tissue damage and regeneration.

Administration of V. amygdalina significantly attenuated body weight loss in both pre- and post-treatment groups compared to the DMH-only group. The extract significantly improved (p < 0.05) levels of key pancreatic function and antioxidant markers, including total protein, amylase, nitric oxide, catalase, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione (GSH). It also reduced GSH percentages, indicating enhanced antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, pancreatic tissues from DMH-induced rats treated with V. amygdalina showed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in organ weight compared to the DMH group, suggesting a decrease in inflammation or edema. Histological studies provided visual evidence of the protective and regenerative effects of V. amygdalina on the damaged pancreatic tissues. > V. amygdalina significantly improved (p < 0.05) levels of total protein, amylase, nitric oxide, catalase, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione (GSH) while reducing GSH percentages.