Gastroprotective Mechanisms of Entandrophragma angolense Extract against Indomethacin-induced Gastric Ulceration in Rats

Aims: The mechanisms of action of the methanolic extract of Entandrophragma angolense in male Wistar rats were investigated using indomethacin ulcer model.

Study Design: Laboratory experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan in 2016.

Methodology: Twenty five adult male Wistar rats weighing between 180-200 g were grouped into five groups (n=5) and treated as follows: Control (Group I), had normal rats’ pellets with water given ad libitum. Groups II to IV were administered graded doses of the extract (200, 400 and 600) mg/kg for 28 days while group V received Omeprazole (positive control) for 28 days. Thirty six female mice (20-25 g) were used for acute toxicity study. Experimental ulcer was induced using indomethacin. Hematological parameters were analyzed with an automatic blood analyzer. Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric oxide (NO), Superoxide dismutase were measured by spectrophotometry method.

Results: The acute toxicity test showed LD50 to be 275.42 mg/kg body weight. The group pre-treated with 200 mg/kg Entandrophragma angolense showed a significant reduction in the Mean Ulcer Score when compared with control group showing a percentage protection of 72.41% (P=0.05), significant increase in Superoxide Dismutase activity and significant reduction MDA level when compared with the control group (P=0.05). Finally, this same group had a significant increase in Nitric Oxide and Prostaglandins E2 concentrations when compared with the control group (P=0.05).

Conclusion: Entandrophragma angolense extract mediates its antiulcer effects via production of antioxidant enzyme {Superoxide dismutase}, stimulates the release of nitric oxide and the production of endogenous prostaglandins (PGE2).