Xylopia aethiopica Fruit Macerate Inhibits Carrageenan-induced Pleurisy in Rats

Background

Pleurisy is an inflammatory condition of the pleura that can lead to severe morbidity and mortality. Controlling excessive pleural inflammation is crucial. Xylopia aethiopica, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, may be a potential treatment.

Objectives

This study evaluates its immunological mechanisms and toxicological impact.

Materials and Methods

Wistar rats were pre-treated with either chloroquine or X. aethiopica fruit macerate before carrageenan-induced pleurisy. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured in blood and pleural exudate via sandwich ELISA. Leukocyte counts were also assessed. Acute and subacute toxicity profiles of the macerate were evaluated in rats.

Results

Carrageenan injection induced an inflammatory condition, resulting in increased local and systemic TNF-α and IL-6 levels, with increased leukocyte influx in the pleural cavity. X. aethiopica macerate significantly reduced systemic (p=0.0026) and local (p=0.0004) TNF-α levels, comparable to chloroquine. No acute toxic effects were observed within 48 hours or 14 days. A 28-day oral administration did not induce behavioral changes, and biochemical analyses suggested safety at studied doses. However, histological analyses revealed vascular congestion and inflammation in the liver and kidneys.

Conclusion

X. aethiopica macerate exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects, supporting its potential as a pleurisy treatment. Further research is needed to confirm its clinical applications.