Comparative Effects of Crude Ethanol Zapoteca portoricensis Leaf Extract and Its Fractions on Some Kidney Markers in Formalin-induced Inflammation in Rats
Ejike Celestine Orji
*
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Victor Henry Azubike Enemor
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Joy Ogana
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Ogechukwu Frances Nworji
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Malachy Chidiebere Chigbo
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Cheryl Ifeanyichukwu Nwokeoma
Department of Microbiology, Federal University Oye-Ekit, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Victoria Obianuju Abiaka
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Chigaemezu Anachu
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Victory Chinedu Ifezue
Department of Applied Biochemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study evaluated the comparative nephroprotective potential of crude ethanol extract of Zapoteca portoricensis leaf and its fractions in formalin-induced inflammation in Wistar rats. Leaves were harvested, authenticated, dried, macerated in ethanol, and fractionated with n-hexane and ethanol. Acute toxicity (LD₅₀) was assessed in mice, and the n-hexane fraction showed the highest bioactivity. Wistar rats were divided into Normal Control, Negative Control, Standard Control, and the Treatment groups. Serum kidney markers (urea, creatinine) and electrolytes (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, HCO₃⁻) were measured using standard biochemical methods. Negative Control showed significantly elevated urea and creatinine and disrupted electrolyte balance. Treatment with the n-hexane fraction (300 mg/kg) normalized renal markers and corrected Na⁺/K⁺ imbalance without acute toxicity. Phytochemical screening revealed abundant flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids, supporting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. These findings validate the ethnomedicinal use of Z. portoricensis and indicate its promise as a safe plant-based intervention for inflammation-related kidney dysfunction. Further study is recommended on the n-hexane fraction to elucidate its bioactive compounds.
Keywords: Zapoteca portoricensis, inflammation, leaf fractions, phytochemical constituents, kidney function markers