Antioxidant defense system induced by a methanol extract of Caesalpinia bonducella in rat liver

Abstract

The antioxidant defense system dramatically controls hepatocellular carcinoma induced by N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA). In order to assess the anticarcinogenic activity of a methanol extract of Caesalpinia bonducella (MECB) leaves containing flavonoids and triterpenoids, the antioxidant defense system has been evaluated. The effect of MECB on lipid peroxidation end-product malondialdehyde (MDA), enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and nonenzymatic antioxidants glutathione (GSH), vitamin E, and vitamin C levels were analyzed in the liver of control and experimental animals. Serum was also analyzed for transaminase activity (SGOT and SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (SALP), bilirubin, total protein, and uric acid. Depletion of all these antioxidants was recorded in cancer conditions. These deleterious effects are controlled by the administration of MECB. After drug administration, there was a marked increase in antioxidant levels and a dramatic decrease in lipid peroxidation levels. MECB also produced a protective effect by decreasing the activity of serum enzymes, bilirubin, and increased the protein and uric acid levels. From the above results, it can be concluded that the observed anticarcinogenic properties of MECB may also be explained by its strong antioxidant capacity and capability to induce an in vivo antioxidant system. © 2005 Taylor & Francis Ltd.