IN VITRO ARGINASE INHIBITORY CAPACITY OF THE AQUEOUS PULP AND PEEL EXTRACT OF PICRALIMA NITIDA.

ABSTRACT

The inhibition of arginase in the cell produces nitrous oxide (NO). The presence of NO has promising outcome for treating cardiovascular diseases. Hence, research has shown that plant based drugs are largely considered safe and effective in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases.This study focused on the in vitro arginase inhibitory capacity of the aqueous pulp and peel extract of Picralima nitida (‘Osu’ fruit). The pulp and peel of nitida was air dried to constant weight and the aqueous extract freeze dried. Picralima extracts at concentrations; 14µg/ml, 28µg/ml, 42µg/ml, 57µg/ml, were confirmed to inhibit in vitro arginase. The results revealed a significant decrease in arginase at; 3.10%, 4.61%, 2.49%, 1.36%, with  IC₅₀= 65.45µg/ml. An increase in Picralima pulp and peel extract concentration led to the increase in the percentage inhibition of arginase.The result from this study, shows ‘Osu’ (Picralima nitida) pulp and peel extract possesses some in vitro arginase inhibitory capacity, and some effects in the management of cardiovascular diseases. There is a need to carry out in vivo experimental studies to ascertain the potency of the extract.