Evaluation of Carrageenan Induced DNA Damages, Inflammation and the Effects of Treatment with Ethanol Seed Extract of Persea americana (Avocado) on Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Antioxidant Profiles in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Inflammatory processes are closely associated with disturbances in cellular redox homeostasis, particularly through excessive generation of reactive oxygen species. When ROS production exceeds the capacity of endogenous antioxidant systems, oxidative stress may develop and contribute to the progression of both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. Persea americana (avocado) seeds contain various bioactive phytochemicals, including phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which have been associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the capacity of avocado seed extract to modulate enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses during carrageenan-induced inflammation remains insufficiently characterized.  Aim: This study investigated the effects of carrageenan induced DNA Damages, inflammation on glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in rats. It further examined whether treatment with an ethanol extract of Persea americana seeds could attenuate alterations in these antioxidant parameters and restore redox balance, using a standard anti-inflammatory agent as a reference for comparison.  Methods: Seventy-five male wistar rats weighing between 100g -120g were used for the study. This Seventy-five male wistar rats were acclimatized for two weeks. Then after the rats were divided into five groups of 15 male wistar rats each. The groups are: Normal control as group 1; Negative control group as group 2; 3000mg/kg ethanol seed extract of persea americana group as group 3. 1500mg/kg ethanol seed extract of persea americana group as group 4; 20mg/kg Ibuprofen group as group 5. Administration of the extract and ibuprofen drug was once a day and in the morning. It was administered orally using oral gavage. All the groups expect group 1 were induced of inflammation. The right leg paw sizes were measured to know the baseline value of the paw size using Electronic Vernier Caliper. Then they were injected into their right leg paw 0.2ml of 1% carrageenan solution. After three hours their various paw sizes were measured again to confirm that the paws were