Evaluation of Protective Potentials of Methanolic Extract of Jatropha tanjorensis against Liver Damage Induced by Paracetamol Overdose

This study investigated the potential of methanolic leaf extract of Jatropha tanjorensis (MEJT) in alleviating paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats. Rats were pretreated with MEJT at doses of 125 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg body weight before exposure to paracetamol. The effects of MEJT were assessed through various parameters, including body weight changes, liver enzyme levels, lipid profiles, oxidative stress markers, and histopathological evaluations. The results demonstrated that paracetamol overdose significantly increased body weight gain percentage, liver-to-body weight ratio, and the activities of serum AST, ALT and ALP as well as concentration of serum bilirubin, indicating liver damage. MEJT pretreatment effectively normalized these parameters, reducing liver enzyme levels and improving lipid profiles. Histological examination revealed that MEJT preserved hepatocyte morphology and mitigated hepatic steatosis and fat infiltration. Additionally, MEJT significantly decreased the percentage of fragmented DNA and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α), while restoring normal levels of SOD and GSH and inhibiting Bax expression, suggesting a reduction in oxidative stress and apoptosis. These findings underscore MEJT's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to its reported flavonoid and tannin contents. The extract's ability to suppress oxidative stress and inflammation highlights its potential as a therapeutic agent for liver diseases. Further research should explore the detailed mechanisms of MEJT's protective effects and its long-term efficacy and safety for clinical use.