ABSTRACT
Colon cancer is a significant global health concern, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Ficus exasperata is a plant species indigenous to Africa that has been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties, particularly in relation to colon cancer. Traditional African medicine has long recognized the healing potential of Ficus exasperata, sparking increased curiosity about its anti-cancer properties. This study investigates the protective effects of Ficus Exasperata on two critical antioxidant markers, reduced Glutathione (GSH) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), in the liver of rats induced with colon cancer. Reduced Glutathione (GSH) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) are pivotal in the body's defense against oxidative stress. GSH plays an essantial role in protecting cells against oxidative harm and serves as a detoxifier, while GPx enzymes are specialized in neutralizing peroxides, providing a multi-layered defense system that helps safeguard cells and tissues from the harmful effects of oxidative damage. Male Wistar rats were divided into 8 groups; Group 1- Control, Group 2- 500mg/kg (Extract only), Group 3- DMH only, Group 4- DMH + Extract (30mg of DMH + 500mg of extract), Group 5- DMH + Extract (30mg of DMH + 750mg of Extract), Group 6- Pre treatment group, Group 7- Post treatment group, Group 8- DMH and standard drug(5-florouracil). Colon cancer was induced using 1,2 Dimethylhydrazine. The Ficus Exasperata-treated group received a standardized extract of Ficus Exasperata for a specified duration. Results revealed a significant decrease in GSH and GPx levels in the colon cancer-induced group compared to the normal control group, reflecting oxidative stress in the liver tissue. In contrast, the Ficus Exasperata treated group exhibited a notable restoration of GSH and GPx levels, which was comparable to the positive control group. These findings VII suggest that Ficus Exasperata possesses potent antioxidant properties that can mitigate oxidative damage induced by colon cancer. The potential mechanisms behind Ficus Exasperata's protective effects on GSH and GPx levels may involve its rich phytochemical composition, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which possess well-documented antioxidant properties. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of Ficus Exasperata as a natural therapeutic agent in the management of colon cancer by suppressing oxidative stress induced by the cancer cells.
