Proinflammatory effect of bi-herbal formula of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratusaqueous leaf extract in phenyl hydrazine-induced anaemia in albino Wistar rats

Abstract

Background: Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus are known for their medicinal use possessing bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and hematopoietic properties, offer promises for novel treatments. By examining the impact of the bi-herbal formula on  IL-1β and TGF-β gene expressions, the study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects.

Aim: This aim of this study was to determine the effect of bi-herbal formula of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus aqueous leaf  extract on interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) gene expressions in Phenyl Hydrazine-Induced Anaemia in Albino Wistar rats.

Methods: A total of sixty (60) adult male albino Wistar rats were divided into six (6) groups; A, B, C, D, E and F representing control,  phenylhydrazine group, ferrous sulphate group, phenylhydrazine + 100mg/kg Biherbal formulation of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon  citratus, phenylhydrazine + 200mg/kg Biherbal formulation of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus and phenylhydrazine + 400mg/kg  Biherbal formulation of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus respectively. mRNA IL-1β and TGF-β were determined using polymerase  chain reaction. Data obtained was analysed by the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software.

Results: There was  a significant increase in the mRNA expression of IL-1β of group C and D when compared to group A and B (p<0.05). There was a  significant decrease in the mRNA expression of TGF-β of group B when compared to group A (p<0.05). Groups C showed statistically  significant higher expressions of TGF-β when compared to group B (p<0.05). Groups D and E showed statistically significant lower  expressions of TGF-β when compared to group A and B (p<0.05). Groups F showed statistically significant lower expressions of TGF-β  when compared to group A (p<0.05).

Conclusion: This study concludes that treatment with the bi-herbal formulation resulted in a  variable effects on IL-1β and TGF-β mRNA expression.