In Vitro Effects of Annona Senegalensis Root Bark, Musa Sapientum L and Malus Pumila Peel Extracts On Xanthine Oxidase

Background: Xanthine Oxidase activity may increase plasma urates, superoxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide leading to gout, arthritis and cancer. Allopurinol, a known Xanthine Oxidase inhibitor, is noted to have various adverse effects. Many laboratories are in research projects to find alternative inhibitors of XO including plant sources. Plants are known to contain therapeutically effective agents. A. senegalensis, M. sapientum L and M. Pumila are reported to contain phytochemicals with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and enzyme inhibitory activities. Methods: Aqueous extracts of Root bark of A. senegalensis, peels of M. sapientum L and M. pumila were assayed for their inhibitory effects on Xanthine oxidase in vitro Results: All aqueous extracts exhibited the presence of flavonoids. A. senegalensis root bark and M sapientum L and M pumila peels were investigated for their effects on Xanthine Oxidase activity. A. senegalensis root bark, M. sapientum L and M. Pumila peel extracts inhibited Xanthine Oxidase activity by 83%, 90% and 61% respectively as which are significantly different (p <0.05) from that of the positive control, allopurinol (65%) Conclusions: The results obtained in this study suggest that the flavonoids found in A. senegalensis root bark and M. sapientum L and M. pumila peel extracts could be potential Xanthine Oxidase activity inhibitors.