Toxicological evaluation of Sargassum plagiophyllum extract in male mice

Purpose: To provide valid scientific evidence for the safety of Sargassum plagiophyllum extract in an animal model. Methods: Sargassum plagiophyllum extract (SPE) was obtained via water extraction using an autoclave at 121°C for 20 min. The SPE was administered to 4 groups of adult male mice via gavage once a day for 21 days. The treatment groups received different doses of SPE, i.e., 100, 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg. Control mice were given distilled water. Body weight, and feed and water intakes were recorded. The toxicity of SPE was assessed by determining blood, biochemical, and histopathological indices. Results: Intake of SPE for 21 days did not produce any impact on body mass, feed intake and water intake, even at 2000 mg/kg. Hematological parameters were also unaffected. Biochemical analysis of blood/serum revealed normal levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in all treatment groups, when compared to control group. Moreover, histopathological studies confirmed healthy conditions of the liver, kidney, colon, and other organs in all treatment groups. Conclusion: These results from a mouse model provide basic scientific evidence of the safety of consuming Sargassum plagiophyllum extract, even at high doses thus expanding its potential use as a medication for improving health.