Effects of Ethanolic Root Bark Extract of Chrysophyllum albidum on Serum Superoxide Dismutase, Catalase and Malondialdehyde in Rat

Purpose: The ethanolic root bark of Chrysophyllum albidum were evaluated for their effect on antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) activities in rats. Methods: Eighteen male Wister rats weighing 100-200g were divided into three groups of six animals each. Two treated groups received a daily dose of ethanolic root bark of Chrysophyllum albidum at 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg body weight respectively via gastric gavage, while equal volume of normal saline was administered to the control group for 3 weeks. Result: All the in vitro models showed dose dependent activity. However the weight gain was dose related with a decrease activity of SOD and CAT (p<0.05) in 100mg/kg treated rats, indicating an altered oxidative statues inthe animals but as the dose increase, SOD and CAT activity increase. MDA concentration was reduced (p<0.05) in the treated rats.Conclusion: The result suggests that the root bark extract of C. albidum has evidence of scavenging and antiperodative properties.