Cymbopogon citratus protect against lead-induced suppression of haematological and tubuloglomerular functions as well as disruption of hepatocellular membranes in male Wistar rats

Abstract

Background: Liver and kidney damage associated with lead acetate exposure has been reported to involve membrane disruption and renal tubuloglomerular dysfunctions which results in a sequalae of physiologic and pathologic responses. Whether Cymbopogon citratus, a widely used herb for a plethoria of disease treatment can attenuate the adverse effect of lead exposure remains poorly understood. Hence, this study investigated the effect of Cymbopogon citratus on lead acetate induced hepatorenal toxicity in male Wistar rat. Methods: Following 7 days acclimatisation, rats were exposed to 50 mg/kg of lead acetate orally for 14 days thereafter treated with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of Cymbopogon citratus aqueous leaf extract orally for 28 days. At the end of 42 days experimentation, animals were euthanized and blood was collected for haematological and serum biochemical analysis. Results: The results showed that Cymbopogon citratus treatment improves haematological (RBC, PCV, Hb, WBC, Lymphocytes and platelet) functions. Also, Cymbopogon citratus significantly attenuated lead-induced liver and kidney damage by lowering plasma concentrations of ALP, ALT, AST, creatinine, uric acid and urea. Blood proteins (albumin and bilirubins) were also upregulated in Cymbopogon citratus treatment. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study suggest that Cymbopogon citratus protect against Lead acetate-induced hepatorenal toxicity by enhancing haematological and tubuloglomerular functions as well as attenuation of hepatocellular membrane disruption.

Keywords

• Lead acetate
• Cymbopogon citratus
• Liver disruption
• Kidney damage
• Immunological reaction