Modulatory Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Gongronema latifolium (asclepiadaceae) on Some Natural and Adaptive Immune Responses in Rodents
Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: Gongronema latifolium (GL) is widely used by indigenous communities in southern Nigeria as a food spice and is known for its rich natural compounds with significant biological and pharmacological properties. This prompted the investigation into the effects of the aqueous G. latifolium leaf extract (AGL) on several specific and non-specific immune responses in rodent (mice) models and in vitro essay. The effects of AGL on delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, phagocytic activities of monocytic cells using carbon clearance assay, haemolytic complement activation test, antibody expression studies, and cyclophosphamide-induced neutropenia assay were examined. Administration of AGL (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg) significantly (p<0.05) increased footpad inflammation in a dose-related manner at 24 hours after antigen challenge in DTH studies. In a homologous prime-boost immunization strategy with tetanus toxoid (TT) or ovalbumin (OVA) antigens, there was a significant (p<0.05) elevation of total immunoglobulin, IgG, and IgG1. The mean phagocytic indices of carbon clearance were significantly (p < 0.05) greater after oral delivery in treated groups, even at the lowest dose of 100 mg AGL/kg. In immunocompromised mice, after cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression, short-term daily supplementation of AGL (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg) produced a significant increase in total neutrophil count and affected other leukocyte differential counts. At all concentrations greater than 125 g/ml in the in vitro assay, AGL inhibited the classical complement system. These findings indicate that the aqueous extract of Gongronema latifolium may enhance both cellular and humoral immune responses. Consequently, further research will be needed to learn more about the immune system's strengthening effects and mechanisms.
Authors: Chioma Igwilo, Moses Ikegbunam, Stella A. Ihim, Collins A. Onyeto, Christopher E.C. Ugwoke, Njideka Onyia, Chukwuemeka S. Nworu
Institutions: Nnamdi Azikiwe University, University of Nigeria
Language: English
Topic: Medicinal Plant Research
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4382892970