Abstract

PHARMACOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF ASPARAGUS RACEMOSUS WHOLE PLANT EXTRACT ON TNBS INDUCED ULCERATIVE COLITIS IN RATS

Anuradha Madke*

Abstract

Background: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by mucosal inflammation and ulceration. Current pharmacological treatments often have significant side effects. Asparagus species are traditionally recognized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, suggesting a potential therapeutic role in UC. This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological effects of a specified Asparagus plant extract (APE) on 2,4,6- trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced ulcerative colitis in a rat model and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Objective: the purpose of this study was toinvestigate the effects of asparagus racemosus on TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis. Methods: rats were randomly divided into five groups: a normal control group, a disease control group (TNBS-induced colitis), a standard treatment group (e.g., sulfasalazine), and two APE treatment groups (low and high doses). Colitis was induced by intra-rectal instillation of TNBS dissolved in ethanol. APE was administered orally once daily for [7 -11] days. Colonic damage was assessed by evaluating the Disease Activity Index (DAI), macroscopic inflammation score, and colonic weight/length ratio. Biochemical analysis included measuring the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers while quantifying antioxidant enzymes. Histopathological examination of colon tissue was performed to assess mucosal integrity and inflammatory cell infiltration. Result: the study results revealed that treatment of rats with AR significantly decreases DAI scores, colon weight etc.

Keywords: asparagus racemosus, ulcerative colitis, TNBS, asparagus plant extract, free radical.