Ameliorative Potentials of Annona muricata (Soursop) on Chloramphenicol-Induced Leukemia in Wistar Rats

Background: Annona muricata, commonly known as soursop is found in South and North America and other places like India, Malaysia and Nigeria

Objectives: This study investigated the ameliorative potential of Annona muricata on chloramphenicol-induced leukemia in Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods: Seventy male and female Wistar rats, weighing between 150 and 200g were grouped into 10 groups of seven rats each. The first category of 5 groups represented the female Wistar rats while the second category of 5 groups represented the male Wistar rats. But both categories were administered the same doses of extract. Group 1 served as normal control, group 2 (disease control) was induced with leukemia using 2250mg of chloramphenicol peritoneally. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were treated with 500mg/kg, 750mg/kg and 2250mg/kg extract respectively via the oral route. The study lasted for 14 days. Oxidative stress markers, liver enzymes, cancer markers, kidney markers and haematological parameters were determined using standard experimental methods.

Results: Significantly increased (p≤0.05) ALP, AST and ALT activities in disease control were restored to normal by all doses of the extract with 2250mg/kg b. wt being the most effective. High concentrations of AFP, CEA and CRP induced by chloramphenicol were decreased by Annona muricata extract. Administration of all doses of the extract significantly decreased (p≤0.005) urea and creatinine levels when compared to the high concentrations of both parameters observed in the disease control group. The administration of 2250mg/kg b. wt. of Annona muricata improved haematological indices (WBC, LYM, MID, Hb, HCT, RBC, MCV and platelets) within the normal range.

Conclusion: The significantly decreased liver enzymes, cancer makers and increases in haematological indices following exposure to the extract is suggestive that Annona muricata elicited ameliorative effects.