The effect of tobacco snuff on blood coagulation parameters in adult Wistar rats

Abstract

This study evaluates the effect of tobacco snuff on platelet count, prothrombin time (PT), and partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) in adult Wistar rats weighing between 150-300g and divided into four group (A - D; n=12 each). Group A served as control, while B, C and D served as test groups. The test groups were further divided into four subgroups (B1 - D1; B2 - D2; B3 - D3; and B4 - D4); representing experimental durations of 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks respectively. Groups B1-D1; B2-D2; B3-D3; and B4-D4, received varying doses of tobacco snuff and at the end of 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks respectively, 3 rats from the sub groups were prepared for blood sample collection into EDTA and plain containers via cardiac puncture. Platelet-poor-plasma for PT and aPTT determination was obtained by spinning the blood at 2000rpm for 15 minutes, while sample analysis was performed using Diammonium ethanedioate and the prothrombin time/activated partial thromboplastin test kits. The results obtained showed that tobacco snuff has capacity to induce platelet count reduction, prolong aPTT and delay PT. Thus, as more public enlightenment in this regard is required, specific molecular studies are necessary to fully explain the mechanisms.

Keywords: Blood, coagulation, coagulation factors, Tobacco, Yaji