Changes associated with administration of Garcinia kola seed hydroethanol extract on DMBA-Induced Mammary Gland Toxicity in Female Wistar Rats

Abstract

Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary gland toxicity and associated systemic complications. Garcinia kola seeds are rich in bioactive phytochemicals with established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, there is paucity of information on its potential effect on cancer related diseases. This study evaluated the protective effects of hydroethanolic seed extract of Garcinia kola on haematological and renal changes associated with DMBA-induced mammary gland toxicity in female Wistar rats. Thirty-five female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups: normal control, DMBA control, DMBA plus Garcinia kola extract, DMBA plus vitamin C, and Garcinia kola extract only. Mammary gland toxicity was induced by a single oral dose of DMBA (50 mg/kg body weight). Following a seven-day induction period, animals received daily oral treatments of Garcinia kola extract or vitamin C for four weeks. Haematological parameters and renal function biomarkers were subsequently evaluated using standard analytical procedures. DMBA administration revealed a statistically significant changes in red blood cell count (8.54±0.33 to 8.87±0.14), haemoglobin concentration (16.20±0.21 to 19.91±0.16), haematocrit level (52.20±6.7 to 58.90±1.8) and neutrophil count (19.12±0.12 to 13.11±0.02) but insignificant in the white blood cell count indicating systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Electrolyte imbalance was evidenced with a significant decrease in potassium (6.14±0.06 to 5.62±0.23) and chloride concentration (103.2±1.32 to 100±2.7). Treatment with Garcinia kola extract significantly ameliorated these abnormalities, restoring haematological and renal parameters toward normal values. Hydroethanolic seed extract of Garcinia kola exhibits haematoprotective and nephroprotective activities against DMBA-induced toxicity, likely through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These findings support its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for mitigating carcinogen-induced systemic damage.