Effects of the Aqueous Fruit Extract of Solanum Macrocarpum Linn on Biochemical Kidney Function of Hyperlipidaemic Rats Administered Triton-X Orally for 7 Days

Abstract

Studies were conducted on the effect of the aqueous fruit extract of Solanum macrocarpum Linn. in triton-induced hyperlipidaemic rats. The plant was Soxhlet-extracted with distilled water and the extract concentrated in vacuo with a yield of 15.34% w/w . The extract was stored in a specimen bottle at room temperature until required. The kidney function parameters; serum creatinine, urea and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium and phosphates) were determined. The results showed that with increase in extract dose, the changes in serum concentration of sodium, calcium and potassium ions were not significant (P>0.05). For potassium ion however, the concentration decrease was dose-dependent and was only significant (P<0.05) at 72hrs. Creatinine increased significantly (P<0.05) throughout the period of study (24hrs, 48hrs and 72hrs) when compared to the control whilst urea did not show any change (P>0.05). Then non-significant changesin phosphate and calcium ions and a reduction in K+ ion may probably not affect the acid-base balance of the physiological system. Elevated levels of creatinine observed in this study may be due to stimulation of muscle activity or impaired kidney function.

Keywords: Solanum macrocarpum Linn, aqueous extract, triton-X, kidney function, hyperlipidaemic rats

Nigerian Veterinary Journal, Vol 32(4)314-320