EFFECT OF CEIBA PENTANDRA ON CADMIUM-INDUCED HIPPOCAMPAL DAMAGE IN WISTAR RATS

Cadmium, a heavy metal, is known for its neurotoxic effects, particularly in the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for learning and memory. Despite the widespread use of traditional remedies, there is limited experimental evidence to support the protective effects of Ceiba pentandra against cadmium-induced hippocampal damage. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective potential of Ceiba pentandra leaf extract in Wistar rats exposed to cadmium, focusing on its effects on body weight, organ weight, antioxidant activity, and hippocampal histology. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a control group, a cadmium-only group (1000 mg/kg), and two treatment groups receiving Ceiba pentandra extract at doses of 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg following cadmium exposure for 21 days. Body weight, relative brain weight, antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, GPx, CAT), and lipid peroxidation (MDA) were measured. Histological analysis of the hippocampus was conducted to assess structural alterations. Ceiba pentandra significantly improved body weight and reduced the elevated brain weight caused by cadmium. Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, GPx, CAT) were significantly increased in the treatment groups, while MDA levels were reduced. Histological analysis showed marked recovery of hippocampal neurons, particularly in the higher dose group, compared to severe atrophy and necrosis in the cadmium-only group. These findings suggest that Ceiba pentandra leaf extract protects against cadmium-induced hippocampal damage, potentially through its antioxidant properties, restoring both brain structure and function.