Cardio-Protective Effect of Theobroma Cacao Leaf on Toluene-Induced Wistar Rats
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Abstract
This research examined whether the n‑hexane leaf extract of Theobroma cacao could protect against toluene‑induced heart damage in Wistar rats. Thirty male rats (157–214 g) were divided into five groups of six. Cardiac toxicity was induced with toluene and treatment groups received the extract at 200 mg/kg or 400 mg/kg. Vitamin E (200 mg/kg) was used as a standard control for 21 days. Serum lipid profile (total cholesterol, HDL, triglycerides, LDL) and cardiac biomarkers (LDH, CK) were measured. Oxidative stress markers (catalase, GSH, MDA, SOD) were also assessed. Toluene significantly reduced antioxidant enzyme activity and HDL levels, while raising triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, LDH, CK and MDA compared to normal controls. Treatment with the extract reversed these changes in a dose‑dependent manner, with the 400 mg/kg dose showing better protection, comparable to vitamin E. The results indicate that T. cacao leaf extract has cardioprotective and antioxidant properties that may mitigate toluene‑induced heart injury.
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