Protective effect of Carica papaya ethanolic leaf extract against lead-induced toxicity in Wistar rats

Abstract

Introduction: leaf ethanolic extract against lead-induced toxicity in Wistar rats. Methods: leaf ethanolic extract (50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight). Weekly changes in body weight were monitored across all exposure groups. Lead concentrations were then quantified in blood, liver, kidney, and bone tissues. Additionally, oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation were evaluated by measuring malondialdehyde levels in liver homogenates for all treatment groups. Results and Discussion: leaf ethanolic extract may provide protection against Pb-induced toxicity, likely through its flavonoid and phenolic chelation and antioxidant activities, coupled with Pb tissue deposition mitigation. These findings suggest Carica papaya leaf ethanolic extract could have potential, to be a low-cost phytotherapeutic candidate for managing Pb poisoning.