Basal Biochemical Studies of the Influence of Annona muricata on Some Liver Function Parameters of Treated Adult Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: This study examines the effects of Annona muricata - commonly known as soursop on liver function parameters in adult Wistar rats. Annona muricata is a tropical fruit with potential hepatoprotective properties, traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. However, data on the scientific investigations regarding its impact on liver function parameters are limited, thus, it is based on this premise that this research was designed and carried out. 

Materials and Methods: In this study, adult Wistar rats were administered extract from different morphological parts of Annona muricata (Leaves, Fruit, root bark, and stem bark) orally for 28 days, followed by an assessment of liver function parameters. The rats were divided into control and 5 treatment groups. The control group received a standard diet, while the treated groups received increasing doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg) of the different morphological parts Annona muricata plant (leaf, fruit-pulp, root-bark, and stem-bark) alongside the standard diet. The parameters include Liver plasma protein, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), total albumin, globulin (GLB), serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Albumin, liver tissue proteins, Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase, Plasma protein total bilirubin, conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin levels were evaluated to monitor potential hepatotoxicity or hepatoprotective effects.

Results: Slight alterations in the liver parameters were observed for the various morphological parts of A. muricata, especially for the high-dose treated groups. Also, mild histological changes were also observed in the liver tissues of the high doses treated groups. The results obtained from this study provide insights into the effects of Annona muricata on liver function parameters.

Conclusion: These findings will contribute to the existing knowledge on the hepatoprotective potential of Annona muricata and may have implications for its application as a therapeutic agent.