EVALUATION OF THE ETHNOMEDICAL POTENTIAL OF Momordica charantia

ABSTRACT

Exposure to carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induces hepatocelluar dysfunction, renal injuries as well as inflammation and oxidative stress in rats. Momordica charantia (MC) is one of the medicinal plants shown in some studies to have high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study evaluated the mechanism underlying the hepatoprotective and nephroprotective potentials of M. charantia against oxidative stress in CCL4 induced rats. Moreover, the influence of (MC) in the expression of mRNA associated with inflammatory process, hepatic and renal functions were also determined. Molecular docking to check for possible interaction between water-soluble organo-sulphur compounds in MC and targeted protein was evaluated using in-silico method. Fifty-six male albino rats were divided into 9 groups of 5 rats/group: group I (control), group II to IV were treated with MC (100, 200, 300mg/kg) respectively, group V to VIII were induced with CCL4 (1 mL/kg.b.wt) and treated with varying doses of MC. Group IX received CCL4 (1 mL/kg.b.wt) and Silybon (40 mg/kg).