Investigating the Effects of Methanol Leaf Extract of Chasmanthera dependens on Liver and Blood in a Simulated Iron Overload Model

Natural iron-chelating agents from plants offer a promising alternative to synthetic chelators with potentially fewer side effects. Phytochemical analysis of the methanol leaf extract of Chasmanthera dependens (MLECD) confirms the presence of antioxidants known for their metal-chelating properties. This study investigated the effects of Chasmanthera dependens on the liver and blood in a simulated iron overload model. Twenty-five adult Wistar rats of both sexes with access to feed and water ad libitum were randomly assigned into five groups (A, B, C, D, & E) of five rats each. Group A was administered 1 ml of distilled water; B received 2 mg/kg of iron chloride (FeCl2); C received co-administration of 2 mg/kg FeCl2 and 200 mg/kg of MLECD; D received co-administration of 2 mg/kg FeCl2 and 400 mg/kg of MLECD and E received co-administration of 2 mg/kg FeCl2 and 800 mg/kg of MLECD daily for twenty-eight days. Initial and final weights of rats were taken before euthanization under chloroform anesthesia and subsequent tissue processing. One-way ANOVA statistical analysis was carried out, with significance set at P<0.05 relative to the control. Results showed elevated serum ferritin levels, decreased liver weight in iron overloaded group. Histological results showed perivascular infiltrates of inflammatory cells, portal vascular congestion and ulceration, and Kupffer cell activation in liver tissue. MLECD-administered groups showed dose-dependent effects of MLECD on liver enzymes, hematocrit levels, hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, and organ weight as well as improved hepatic histoarchitecture. MLECD prevented excessive iron deposits in hepatic and hematological tissues.

Key Words: iron overload, Chasmanthera dependens, natural chelators, liver, blood