Acute and Sub-Acute Oral Toxicity Evaluation of Avicularin

Abstract

Avicularin is a bioactive flavonoid found mainly in blueberries, American cranberries, apples, and tea. Avicularin has been isolated from various plants, including Polygonum aviculare, Rhododendron aureum, and Taxillus kaempferi. Several preclinical studies have already demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and neuroprotective effects of avicularin. Moreover, avicularin is a promising phytoconstituent with broad therapeutic potential in various diseases. Therefore, a toxicity study is urgently needed so that the appropriate dose can be used in animal studies to demonstrate its potential effects. The main objective of this research article is to find out the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and observe if there are any signs of toxicity in animals administered avicularin. The acute toxicity study was conducted according to the OECD guideline (TG 423). Single doses of 300, 2000, and 5000 mg/kg were administered, and the study was conducted for 14 days. In the acute toxicity study, the animals showed no mortality or changes in behavioural patterns. It was concluded that the maximum tolerated dose of avicularin is more than 5000 mg/kg. In a repeated dose toxicity study, we followed the OECD guideline (TG 407) and treated rats with 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day for 28 days. In the repeated toxicity study, the animals showed no differences in haematological and biochemical parameters. Histopathological examination of all organs revealed normal histology. Therefore, it is concluded from the results that repeated exposure to avicularin at 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg was considered safe in a 28-day toxicity study.