ANTI-THALASSEMIC POTENTIAL OF TERMINALIA CATAPPA EXTRACT: COMPARATIVE IN VIVO IRON QUANTIFICATION IN SPLEEN, LIVER, AND HEART TISSUES OF MICE

Abstract

Thalassemia is often complicated by iron overload, necessitating effective treatments to manage iron accumulation in vital organs. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-thalassemic potential of Terminalia catappa ethyl acetate crude extract (TCEACE) by assessing its impact on iron content in mouse spleen, liver, and heart tissues. Leaves of Terminalia catappa were collected, dried, and subjected to sequential extraction using chloroform, ethyl acetate, and ethanol. Twenty-six male Swiss Albino mice with induced iron overload were divided into six groups, receiving either TCEACE at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, a standard drug (Deferoxamine), or saline as a control. Iron levels in the spleen, liver, and heart tissues were measured using spectrophotometry after tissue homogenization and iron extraction. The study found that both 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg doses of TCEACE significantly reduced iron accumulation in the spleen, liver, and heart compared to the Positive Control group. The 100 mg/kg dose was particularly effective, achieving iron levels comparable to or lower than those in the standard drug treatment group (DFO). These results suggest that TCEACE, especially at higher doses, effectively mitigates iron overload in thalassemic mice. TCEACE shows potential as a natural therapeutic alternative for managing iron overload in thalassemia, with efficacy comparable to standard drug treatments.