In vivo evaluation of antioxidant activity of alcoholic extract of Rubia Cordifolia and its influence on lead nitrate induced damage to tissue.

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the in vivo antioxidant activity of alcoholic extract of the roots of Rubia cordifolia (RC). Male mice, were exposed, either to lead nitrate at a dose containing 40mg/kg body weight or combined with Rubia cordifolia for the first period of 40 days, where the animals were sacrificed for oxidative studies and biochemical studies. Lead has induced a significant increase in LPO, where as significant depletion SOD, CAT and GSH in liver and testis tissues. Rubia cordifolia alone had moderate effect on mice, where as coadministration of lead nitrate with Rubia cordifolia reversed the effect of lead. Ingestion of Pb (NO3)2 showed significant elevation in AST, ALT, ACP, ALP, and total cholesterol, level in tissue homogenate whereas Total protein content decreased significantly in comparison to control animals. On the other hand Alcoholic extract of Rubia cordifolia (low and high dose), along with lead nitrate decreased, elevated levels of AST, ALT, ACP, ALP, and total cholesterol, as compared to lead nitrate intoxicated mice. A significant rise in the level of total protein was also noticed. Preliminary analysis has revealed that Rubia cordifolia has significant amount of GSH, Vitamin C, other important antioxidants and polyphenols. In addition it also contains important trace elements like Zn, Cu, Vd, Se and Mo. These contribute to its antioxidant properties.