Protective Role of Adansonia digitata Extract Against Glyphosate-induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Adult Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide, and it poses numerous health risks to the environment and living organisms. This study aimed at assessing the protective role of Adansonia digitata (A. digitata) on glyphosate-induced hepatorenal toxicity in a Wistar rat model. Methods: Twenty-five rats were randomly divided into five groups of five animals each. The first group did not receive glyphosate and served as the control group. The second group received a single daily dose of only glyphosate (375 mg/kg). The treatment groups 3 and 4 were given a single daily dose of glyphosate (375 mg/kg) together with 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of A. digitata extract, respectively. Group 5 was administered glyphosate (375 mg/kg) with Ascorbic Acid (200 mg/kg) as a comparison. At the conclusion of the study, blood serum samples from the rats were used for biochemical analysis. Then, the liver and kidneys were removed for histological examinations. Results: In comparison to the control rats in group I, those in group 2 that were given glyphosate had increased liver enzymes biomarkers, urea, creatinine and malondialdehyde levels, but their superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase levels decreased (P<0.05). Groups 3 and 4 rats that received fruits of A. digitata did not show the upsurge of liver enzymes biomarkers creatinine, urea and malondialdehyde. Furthermore, the extract of the fruits increased endogenous antioxidant biomarkers. A. digitata protected the glomeruli from degeneration and prevented histological liver steatosis. Conclusion: This study’s findings suggest that the pre-treatment of rats with A. digitata extract provides a hepatorenal protective effect against glyphosate toxicity.