AMELIORATIVE EFFECTS OF CANANGA ODORATA ON CADMIUM INDUCED OXIDATIVE STRESS IN THE CEREBRUM OF MALE WISTAR RATS
Abstract
Introduction: Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal widely distributed in the
environment and known for inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and
neurodegeneration in the brain. The cerebrum, because of its high lipid content and
metabolic activity, is especially vulnerable to cadmium-induced damage. Cananga
odorata (Ylang-Ylang) is a medicinal plant rich in flavonoids and phenolic
compounds with reported antioxidant and neuroprotective effects.
Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of
Cananga odorata leaf extract on cadmium-induced oxidative stress in the cerebrum
of male Wistar rats. The specific objectives were to evaluate oxidative stress
biomarkers (SOD, CAT, and MDA), assess the modulatory effects of Cananga
odorata extract, and determine the extent of lipid peroxidation following cadmium
exposure.
Methodology: Forty (40) adult male Wistar rats were divided into five experimental
groups. Cadmium chloride (30 mg/kg bw) was administered intraperitoneally on
Day 1, while Cananga odorata extract was given orally at graded doses (200 mg/kg
and 500 mg/kg bw) for 30 days. Biochemical assays were performed to determine
superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels
in cerebral tissue.
Results: Cadmium exposure slightly reduced SOD and markedly increased MDA
levels, indicating oxidative stress, while CAT showed no significant change. Co
administration of Cananga odorata aqueous leaf extract restored antioxidant
enzyme activities and reduced lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner
Conclusion: Cananga odorata aqueous leaf extract effectively protects the
cerebrum from cadmium-induced oxidative stress. The extract enhanced antioxidant
enzyme activities and reduced lipid peroxidation, thereby minimizing oxidative
damage. These findings confirm the antioxidant and neuroprotective potential of
Cananga odorata at higher doses without inducing toxicity under normal
physiological conditions.
Keywords: Cananga odorata, Cadmium, Cerebral oxidative stress, Antioxidant
enzymes, Neuroprotection, Wistar rats.
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