Evaluation of Antiulcer Activity of Amaranthus Dubius Leaves in Swiss Albino Mice

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the antiulcer activity of Amaranthus dubius leaves extract (Amaranthaceae) in Swiss albino mice.

Methods: The effect of Amaranthus dubius leaves on gastric secretion and effect of gastric cytoprotection were evaluated using ethanol induced gastric ulcer. In mice, oral doses of 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg of ADAE were given. Pantoprazole (40mg/kg) was used as standard drug. In-vitro antioxidant activity was measured using two assays: DPPH radical scavenging and alkaline DMSO methods. Gastric damage was evaluated by scoring ulcers, measuring ulcer index, and determining gastric juice pH. In addition, biochemical tests for nitric oxide and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations as well as histopathological analysis were carried out.

Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of bioactive compound. In comparison to the control group, the ADAE resulted in a significant decrease in ulcer index and an increase in the pH of gastric juice. At highest dose, the extract exhibited 56.04% ulcer inhibition. Histopathological investigation it was observed that the group with highest dose of test extract showed mild haemorrhages and cellular infiltrations as well as less structural damage. Biochemical tests indicated that ADAE reduced gastric MDA levels and increased nitric oxide levels. An IC50 value of 131.16 µg/ml was found using the DPPH assay, and the alkaline DMSO method showed strong inhibition of superoxide radicals.

Conclusions: The present study concluded that Amaranthus dubius leaves extract shows a good anti-ulcer effect at 200 mg/kg dose with its gastroprotective mechanism and antioxidant property.