Anti-oxidant Effects of Chromatographic Fractions of Abrus precatorius (Linn.) Leaf Extract in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Aims: Plant antioxidants are considered safe, nutritional, and therapeutic, offering promising solutions to oxidative stress-related health issues. This study explores the antioxidant potential of column fractions derived from the methanol extract of Abrus precatorius, a plant with limited prior evaluation of its bioactive fractions. Study Design:  The study used an experimental design. Place and Duration of Study: Orlu LGA, Imo State, Nigeria Methodology: Plant materials were collected from Orlu LGA, Imo State, Nigeria. The dried, powdered leaves were screened for phytochemical constituents using standard methods. Methanol extract was obtained through cold maceration and further fractionated using column chromatography packed with silica gel (60–120 mesh), with elution performed using a gradient mixture of hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. The phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, cardenolides, and saponins, compounds known for their antioxidative properties. Column chromatography yielded five fractions (F1–F5), which were assessed for antioxidant activity using both in vivo (rat models) and in vitro methods, including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide assays. Results: Notably, fraction F1 demonstrated a significant increase in glutathione and catalase activity, while F4 showed a marked elevation in superoxide dismutase activity in erythrocytes. In liver tissue, F1 and F5 showed exceptional catalase activity, with respective increases of 258 % and 290 %. Fraction F3 exhibited a 290 % increase in superoxide dismutase activity. Furthermore, F3 effectively reduced DPPH radical activity with an IC50 of 0.2 mg/mL, while F4 significantly lowered nitric oxide levels with an IC50 of 0.3 mg/ml. Conclusion: This study highlights the novel identification of potent antioxidant fractions from Abrus precatorius methanol extract, offering valuable insights for developing plant-based therapies for oxidative stress-related disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions. It underscores the plant's potential as a safe, natural antioxidant source for further pharmacological exploration.