Mitigating Hypothalamic Oxidative Stress: The role of Tannin extract of Cyperus esculentus Tuber on Lead Acetate-exposed Wistar rats

Abstract

Introduction: Lead (Pb) toxicity remains a significant environmental and public health concern, known to induce neurotoxic effects, particularly within the hypothalamus. Natural polyphenols, such as tannins, possess antioxidant properties that may counteract heavy metal-induced neuronal damage.

Aim: This study investigates the protective potential of tannin extract of   Cyperus esculentus root against lead acetate-induced hypothalamic toxicity in Wistar rats.

Methods: A total of twenty Male rats weighing 180-200g were randomly assigned into four groups (n=5) and treated for an experimental period of 28 days. Group I (control) received normal saline only. Group II received lead acetate at 30 mg/kg body weight to induce hypothalamic toxicity. Group III received lead acetate and 50 mg/kg body weight of tannin extract. Group IV received lead acetate and 100mg/kg of tannin extract for 28 days. Tannin was extracted from Cyperus esculentus and administered concurrently with lead acetate. The next day after the last treatment period, blood samples were taken via retro-orbital puncture using a capillary tube and preserved in a non-heparinized Vacutainer for evaluation of the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Testosterone (TT), Follicle-Stimulating-Hormone (FSH), and Luteinizing-Hormone (LH).  Animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, the brains were dissected, and the hypothalamus tissues were harvested for histopathological and Immunohistochemical evaluation.

 Results: The Lead administered group resulted in a significant increase in the levels of MDA, SOD, and CAT. Neuronal degeneration was also observed in the same group, accompanied by altered levels of TT, FSH, and LH. Co-administration of tannin, particularly at 100mg/kg, markedly reduced lipid peroxidation, restored the MDA, SOD, and CAT activities. Moreover, preservation of the hypothalamic histoarchitecture was seen in the tannin-treated groups (groups III and IV).

Conclusion: Tannin extracts of Cyperus esculentus Tuber demonstrate beneficial effects against lead-induced hypothalamic toxicity, which could be attributed to its anti-oxidative properties. This study suggests and encourages its consumption in mitigating heavy metals' adverse effects, particularly in hypothalamic injury or neurodegenerative conditions. However, further studies are encouraged to explore its positive impacts on the molecular pathways involved in this regard.