Evaluation of the Hepatoprotective Efficacy of Mimusops elengi L. Fruits in a Carbon Tetrachloride-induced Rat Model

Abstract

Liver diseases are a major global health burden, and oxidative stress plays a key role in the development of hepatocellular injury. Mimusops elengi L. fruits contain bioactive phytochemicals with reported antioxidant properties. This study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of aqueous Mimusops elengi fruit extract against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in Wistar rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into five groups (n = 5). Hepatic injury was induced using CCl4 (1 mL/kg, i.p.) for 15 days. Animals received Mimusops elengi fruit extract (200 and 400 mg/kg, orally) or silymarin (25 mg/kg). Serum ALT, AST, and catalase activity were evaluated, followed by histopathological examination of liver tissues. CCl4 administration significantly increased serum ALT and AST levels while reducing catalase activity, indicating severe hepatic injury. Treatment with Mimusops elengi fruit extract significantly reduced liver enzyme levels and improved antioxidant status in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological examination demonstrated preservation of hepatic architecture, reduced necrosis and decreased inflammatory changes, particularly at 400 mg/kg. The hepatopr tective activity observed may be attributed to the antioxidant and membrane- stabilizing properties of flavonoids, tannins, and saponins present in Mimusops elengi fruits. The biochemical and histopathological findings collectively support the traditional medicinal use of this plant for liver protection and suggest its potential as a natural hepatoprotective agent. Mimusops elengi fruit extract exhibits significant hepatoprotective effects against CCl4-induced liver injury, likely mediated through antioxidant mechanisms. These findings support its potential as a natural therapeutic agent, although further studies are required to elucidate its active constituents and molecular pathways.