Hepatoprotective activity of n-hexane and ethyl acetate fractions of Sida acuta on thioacetamide induced liver injury in rats

Abstract

This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of n-hexane and ethylacetate fractions of Sida acuta against thioacetamide (TAA) induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Thirty-five adult male albino wistar rats, grouped into seven groups (n=5 each) were used. Groups A-D served as the tests, while E-G served as control. The rats were fed as discussed in the methodology. Phyto-chemical analysis of Sida acuta was done using standard methods. Acute toxicity test revealed an oral LD50 of >3000 mg/kg. Test administration was oral for 7 days prior to TAA intoxication. On the 8^th day, after an 18-hour fast, TAA (200mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously to all the groups except group G (normal control). Blood samples were collected 24hrs after TAA administration to assess the liver function of the rats (ALT, AST, ALP and Albumin levels). Results revealed a significant increase in the serum levels of ALP, AST and ALT, as well as a significant decrease in the serum Albumin levels due to TAA induced liver damage. Pre-treatment with both n-hexane and ethyl acetate fractions of Sida acuta reduced the toxic effect of TAA as indicated by a decrease in the levels of previously elevated liver parameters and an increase in the level of Albumin.

Keyswords: Hepatoprotective, n-Hexane, Ethyl acetate, Sida acuta, Thioacetamide, liver function