Hepatoprotective, Nephroprotective, and Gastric Mucosal Defence Profiles of Viscum album Bioactive Extracts against Lead Toxicity

Abstract

Lead acetate exposure can produce biochemical and histological disturbances in several organs. This study evaluated the protective effects of Viscum album leaf extract against lead acetate-induced toxicity in male Wistar albino rats. Thirty rats were randomly assigned to six groups of five animals each. Group 1 served as the normal control and received standard grower mash and water, while Groups 2–6 were administered lead acetate (10 mg/kg body weight) daily to induce toxicity. In addition to lead acetate exposure, Groups 2, 3, and 4 received V. album leaf extract at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight, respectively. Group 5 served as the untreated lead-exposed control, whereas Group 6 served as the positive control and received omeprazole (500 mg/kg body weight). All treatments were administered for 28 days. Biochemical and haematological analyses indicated that treatment with V. album significantly (P < 0.05) was associated with changes in body and organ weights and modulated liver enzyme activities and haematological indices compared with untreated lead-exposed rats. The extract also helped maintain renal function and electrolyte homeostasis, as assessed using serum urea, creatinine and electrolyte concentrations. Histopathological examination further demonstrated that V. album leaf extract ameliorated lead-induced tissue alterations in the gastric mucosa, liver, heart, and kidneys, with preservation of hepatocytes, cardiomyocytes, and renal architecture. These findings suggest that V. album leaf extract may exert protective effects against lead acetate-induced systemic toxicity in rats, potentially through the preservation of haematological, hepatic, renal, and tissue integrity. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and identify the bioactive constituents responsible for these protective effects.