Effects of leech salivary extract (Lse) on indices of liver function in rats

Abstract

This study was carried out to establish the safety status of leech salivary extract (LSE) for potential administration in clinical conditions, where found potent against causative microbes. Sub-chronic toxicity test of LSE was carried out by oral administration of 25, 50 and 100mg/kgbw to healthy wister rats (Rattus novergicus) for 28 days, with appropriate immune suppressant (Dexamethasone) and immune stimulant (Jobelyn) and negative controls. Blood samples were collected from the rats and analysed for metabolite parameters including, Aspartate amino transferase (AST), Alanine transaminase (ALT), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Total protein, following standard procedures. Histopathological examination of liver harvested from the rats, post sacrifice, involved grossing and tissue processing. The results revealed that the LSE had no significant (p˃0.05) effect on the biomarkers of the hepatic function (AST, ALT and total protein) but ALP significantly (p˂0.05) decreased from control concentration of 226.20±22.35 to 141.00±15.25 at 50mg/kgbw and 226.20±22.35 to 118.40±18.48 at 100mg/kgbw. The histologic sections of the liver showed normal hepatic morphology. These findings revealed that the LSE has no potential to cause cell damage but caution should be taken when administering LSE for a long duration.