Evaluation of Curcumin, Piperine, and Ferrous Sulphate Combination Potential in the Adjuvant-induced Arthritis Model in Male Wistar Rats

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder known for prolonged joint inflammation and deformity condition. Currently, Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatment in RA patients is preferred. Objectives: The research focuses on exploring the combination (curcumin (200mg/kg), piperine (10mg/kg), and ferrous sulphate (0.1mg/kg) potential in the adjuvant-induced arthritis model (AIA) compared with disease control and prednisone acetate (standard 5 mg/kg) in the adjuvant-induced arthritis model (AIA). Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats in each group was treated with standard, curcumin, piperine, and ferrous sulphate individually as well as in combination for 28 days after the induction of arthritis. Evaluation parameters were body weight, paw edema, mobility condition, and stair climbing test. Furthermore, Red Blood Cells (RBCs), White Blood Cells (WBCs), immune organ index (spleen and thymus) was elucidated. The study was concluded with histopathology, X-ray radiography, Tumour Necrosis Factor α (TNF α), and Interleukin- 1beta (IL-β) examination. Results: The combination showed significance with the gradual increase in body weight and mobility (7th day), whereas the conditions of paw edema and stair climbing were found effective (28th day). RBC and WBC counts were found to be clinically significant. The combination was found to be highly significant in estimation of immune organ index. Combination showed significant change in infiltration of inflammatory cells, joint space, and minimal erosion in bone indicating satisfactory anti-arthritic effects. Furthermore, the combination showed improvement in joint radiodensity and narrowing in joint space. The level of TNF-α and IL-1β were found significant. Conclusion: The combination showed antiinflammatory and anti-arthritic activity.