Solanum lycopersicum exerts cardioprotective effects via reduced creatinine kinase myocardial band and ATPase activities in Wistar rats exposed to lead acetate

Abstract

Background: Lead exposure is a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, yet effective cardioprotective interventions remain inadequately explored. Despite existing research, there is limited clarity on potential natural therapies that can mitigate lead-induced cardiac damage. Objective: This study investigates the cardioprotective effects of ethyl acetate extract of Solanum lycopersicum (EESL) in lead-exposed Wistar rats, providing insights into its therapeutic potential and relevance. Methods: Fresh fruits of Solanum lycopersicum (tomatoes) were air-dried, ground, concentrated, and extracted using ethyl acetate. A portion of EESL was analyzed using GC–MS. Fifteen (15) male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 5 per group): control (distilled water), lead acetate (0.5 mg.mL-1), and lead acetate + EESL (5 mg.kg-1). Lead acetate and EESL were administered via drinking water and oral gavage, respectively, for four weeks. Body weight and lead concentration were measured using a weighing scale and flame atomic absorption spectrometry, respectively. Antioxidants and cardiac biomarkers were assessed using spectrophotometry. Data were analyzed using ANOVA at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Gas chromatography mass spectrometry identified 56 constituents, with 6-dehydroprogesterone (-9.3 kcal/mol) showing the highest docking affinity for the beta-adrenergic receptor. There was a significant increase in body weight in the lead acetate + EESL group compared to the lead acetate group. Lead concentration was significantly higher in the lead acetate group compared to the lead acetate + EESL group. SOD activity significantly increased in the lead acetate + EESL group, while CK-MB, Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase, and Ca²⁺ ATPase activities significantly decreased compared to the lead acetate group. Conclusion: Solanum lycopersicum ethyl acetate extract demonstrated cardioprotective effects by enhancing antioxidant activity and reducing cardiac injury markers in lead-exposed rats. However, the associated increase in body weight raises concerns about potential metabolic risks, warranting further investigation

Keywords

• Solanum lycopersicum
• Lead acetate
• Cardioprotective effects
• GC-MS
• Spectrophotometry