Antioxidant effects of Musa paradisiaca L. in acetaminophen induced hepatic toxicity in albino rats

The improper functioning of the antioxidant defense system of our body results in the damage of macromolecules such as DNA, protein and lipids. This forms the basis of pathology of various diseases. Antioxidants prevent the accumulation of the free radicals and protect the body from diseases. The present study was designed to assess the antioxidant potential of Musa paradisiaca L in acetaminophen induced damage. The experimental models were grouped into six groups comprising of six rats each. Group I served as normal control, Group II was induced with acetaminophen at a dose of 2g/kg BW as a single dose. Group III was induced with acetaminophen and orally administered aqueous extract of Musa paradisiaca L at a dose of 100mg/Kg BW for 15 days. Group IV was induced with acetaminophen and orally administered aqueous extract of Musa paradisiaca L at a dose of 200mg/Kg BW for 15 days. Group V received the aqueous extract of Musa paradisiaca L alone at a dose of 200mg/Kg BW for 15 days. Group VI was induced with acetaminophen and administered silymarin at a dose of 25mg/KgBW for 15 days. At the end of the experimental period the animals were sacrificed. Serum and hepatic tissue were used for the study. The following parameters were analysed in the hepatic tissue – Lipid peroxidation (LPO), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Reduced Glutathione(GSH) and protein. The serum protein level was also measured. The induction of hepatic damage with acetaminophen resulted in increased lipid peroxidation and reduced scavenging activity of the defense system of the body. On treatment with the aqueous extract of Musa paradisiaca L the antioxidant system was activated reducing the lipid peroxidation and accumulation of free radicals, thereby protecting the hepatic tissue from oxidative damage.