Toxicological Assessment of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Anisopus mannii: Acute and Sub-Acute Studies in Albino Rats

Abstract

The study investigated the acute and sub-acute toxicity of aqueous leaf extract of Anisopus mannii in albino rats to assess its safety profile and potential organ-specific effects. Acute toxicity was evaluated using Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guideline 401, with doses ranging from 1000 to 5000 mg/kg administered orally. The rats were observed for behavioral changes, toxicity symptoms, and mortality over 14 days. For the sub-acute study, 20 male rats were divided into four groups and administered 200, 400, 600 mg/kg of the extract, or distilled water (control) daily for 28 days. Biochemical markers of liver and kidney function were analyzed, and histopathological examinations of liver and kidney tissues were performed. The acute study revealed no mortality nor significant behavioral changes (p≥ 0.05), with an LD50 value greater than 5000 mg/kg, indicating low toxicity. Sub-acute analysis showed a dose-dependent increase in urea and creatinine levels, suggesting potential renal stress at higher doses. However, liver function markers, including total bilirubin, conjugated bilirubin, ALT, and AST, were significantly reduced (p ≤ 0.05), indicating hepato-protective effects. Histopathological examination of the liver showed intact hepatic architecture with no necrosis or inflammation, while the kidneys exhibited mild alterations. These findings suggest that Anisopus mannii extract is relatively safe at therapeutic doses but may pose renal risks at higher concentrations. Further studies are recommended to elucidate the mechanisms of action and establish long-term safety profiles.