Abstract

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. is the common jackfruit tree belongs to family Moraceae. The protective role of leaf petiole part of the plant was investigated in experimental hepatotoxicity. Antioxidant enzyme activity was investigated in acetaminophen intoxicated rat liver treated with methanol extract of Artocarpus heterophyllus. Phytochemical analysis and the antioxidant property of successive hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus showed highest activity with methanol extract (Artocarpus heterophyllus). Superoxide dismutase, catalase (antioxidant enzymes) and glutathione showed significant increase in rats with oral administration of Artocarpus heterophyllus compared to the acetaminophen treated group. The degree of hepatoprotection was assessed by the activity of aspartate amino transferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase. A dose dependant protective effect of Artocarpus heterophyllus (200 mg/kg body weight, 400 mg/kg body weight) against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats was identified. Histopathological evaluation of the liver confirmed the hepatoprotective function of methanol extract of Artocarpus heterophyllus as evident in biochemical evaluations. The results of the present study suggest the potential use of leaf petiole of Artocarpus heterophyllus in the treatment of liver disease due to its ability to protect as an antioxidant.