Effects of Aqueous Rhizome Extract of Zingiber officinale on Arsenic Trioxide-Induced Spleen Damage in Adult Wistar Rats

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Arsenic trioxide induces significant spleen toxicity, causing splenomegaly, oxidative stress, inflammation, and compromised immune responses, which can lead to infections, impaired blood filtration, and systemic health decline. Zingiber officinale, known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-carcinogenic properties, shows potential in mitigating toxicity and oxidative stress. This study aimed to assess the effects of aqueous rhizome extract of Zingiber officinale on arsenic trioxide-induced spleen damage in adult Wistar rats.

METHODOLOGY: Thirty (30) adult Wistar rats (n=5) were randomly assigned into six groups (A-F). Group A served as control; Group B - 10 mg/kg As₂O₃ only; Group C - 190 mg/kg body weight of Zingiber officinale stem extract and 10 mg/kg As₂O₃; Group D - 380 mg/kg body weight of Zingiber officinale stem extract and 10 mg/kg As₂O₃; Group E - 50 mg/kg body weight of standard drug (silymarin) and 10 mg/kg As₂O₃. Group F - 380 mg/kg body weight of Zingiber officinale stem extract.

RESULTS: Results of haematological parameters showed no significant difference (p>0.05) across groups. The arsenic trioxide-only group had significantly decreased glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase, and increased malondialdehyde levels (p<0.05) compared to control. Pre-treatment with Zingiber officinale and silymarin significantly improved these markers (p<0.05). Histologically, arsenic trioxide caused severe spleen damage, while pre-treatment with Zingiber officinale and silymarin showed marked improvement. 

CONCLUSION: Taken together, these findings provide evidence that Zingiber officinale protects against arsenic trioxide-induced spleen damage in Wistar rats.