Protective effect of Abies pindrow on dextran sulphate sodium induced ulcerative colitis in rats

Abstract

The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of the leaves of Abies pindrow in dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) induced ulcerative colitis in rats in an attempt to search for a safe, effective, and economic treatment of ulcerative colitis. Petroleum ether extract of leaves of A. pindrow (PEEAP)was used and its phytochemical screening was performed. Dextran sulphate sodium induced ulcerative colitis model was used for the induction of disease. Rats were divided into six groups (n=6) namely, vehicle control, disease control, standard group (Sulphasalazine – 50mg/kg) and test group (PEEAP – 100, 200 & 400 mg/kg). Disease activity index (DAI) was recorded daily from day 6 onward. After 11 days, animals were sacrificed and evaluated for colon mucosal damage index (CMDI) and the level of myeloperoxidase activity (MPO), malondialdehyde activity (MDA), Super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase in the homogenized colon tissue. The animal treated with PEEAP (400 mg/kg) showed significant higher colon length than the disease control group. CMDI were found to be significantly lower in the treatment group as compared to the disease group. DAI was found to be significantly lower in the treatment group as compared to the diseased control group. It also showed a lower level of MPO and MDA and a higher level of SOD and catalase than those observed in the disease group. PEEAPsignificantly reduced the severity of the ulcerative colitis produced by DSS. The anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and antioxidant activity of this plant might be responsible for its protective role in ulcerative colitis. Further studies are suggested to isolate the active principle responsible for the activity and necessary to confirm the exact mechanism of action.