Journal of Research in Applied and Basic Medical Sciences (Jul 2024)
Antiplasmodial activity of Azanza Garckeana root bark extract and its effect on hematological indices in plasmoduim berghei infected mice
Abstract
Background & Aims: Malaria disease imposes a substantial global health burden, urging the search for effective treatments amid escalating drug resistance. This study investigates the antiplasmodial potential of Azanza garckeana root bark extract in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice and evaluates its impact on hematological indices. Materials & Methods: In this experimental research, we studied on six groups of 30 mice (Groups A to F) comprising of five mice per group. Group A was only given food and water with no inoculation and treatment, B was inoculated with Plasmodium berghei but no treatment was given, C was infected and treated with artemether while D E F were infected and treated with 100mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 300mg/kg of Azanza garckeana root-bark extract respectively for 4 days. Parasitemia levels, chemo-suppressive effect and hematological parameters were assessed on four different days following the start of the treatment. The findings were expressed as mean ± SEM. One-way analysis of variance was used to find the differences between the four groups, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed diverse bioactive compounds in the extract. The 4-day suppressive test demonstrated substantial antiplasmodial activity, with the 300 mg/kg dose achieving an 88.17% chemo-suppressive effect, comparable to Artemether's efficacy. Significant (p < 0.05) increases in hemoglobin, packed cell volume, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets were seen in hematological examinations in intervention groups, especially with the 300 mg/kg dosage. Conclusions: Azanza garckeana root-bark extract exhibited potent antiplasmodial effects, possibly mediated by identified phytochemicals. The dose-dependent chemosuppression and modulation of hematological parameters underscore its potential as an alternative antimalarial therapy in mammals.
