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ABSTRACT
Sterculia tragacantha has been shown to have anti-oxidant as well as anti-inflammatory properties, and improve haematological parameters in pregnant women. Valproic acid (VPA) is an effective agent for epilepsy and other disorders. Its toxicity in the liver is the subject of research. It is linked to a spectrum of congenital malformations referred to as Valproic acid syndrome. The aim of the study was to investigate for effects of aqueous leaf extract of Sterculia tragacantha on the hepatotoxicity and neural teratogenicity of VPA in pregnant Wistar rats.
Fifty six (56) rats divided into 4 groups each comprising 14 pregnant dams, were deployed in this controlled experimental study. Group A was the control; B had VPA at 600mg/kg intraperitoneally on days 9-11, C had only 1000mg/kg of the extract, on Days 1 to 11 and D had VPA on days 9-11 and the extract on days 1-11. In each group, seven were sacrificed and an equal number allowed to litter. The mortality rates of dams as well as the pups and the incidence of congenital anomalies were computed. Liver samples for histology and concurrent blood samples for liver enzyme assay were obtained from dams. Data was analysed. (P < 0.05 was considered significant). Results show significant increase in mortality in the dams and pups exposed to VPA with extract giving a protective effect against this. The number of tail anomalies is significantly higher in the group which received VPA but this is reduced by the administration of the extract.
Sterculia tragacantha reduces the hepatotoxicity of VPA in pregnant wistar rats. The incidence of congenital anomalies of the tail is reduced by 5.2% after administration of the extract.
