Therapeutic Potential of Various Edible Vegetable Extracts for Managing DL-methionine-induced Hyperhomocysteinemia and Oxidative Stress in Wistar Rats
Karibo Amakiri Okari
Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Owo, Gogo James *
Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Kpomah, Enyohwo Dennis
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia, a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated plasma homocysteine levels, is associated with oxidative stress and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of vegetable extracts in mitigating DL-methionine-induced hyperhomocysteinemia and oxidative stress in rats. Plasma homocysteine levels and oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH), were assessed. The results showed that hyperhomocysteinemia significantly increased plasma homocysteine and MDA levels while decreasing SOD and GSH (p < 0.05). Treatment with vegetable extracts, particularly S. oleracea and B. oleracea , resulted in a significant reduction in homocysteine and MDA levels, along with an increase in SOD and GSH concentrations (p < 0.05). Pearson’s correlation analysis further demonstrated a strong association between homocysteine and oxidative stress markers. These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with folate- and antioxidant-rich vegetables may serve as an effective strategy for managing hyperhomocysteinemia and reducing oxidative damage.
Keywords: Hyperhomocysteinemia, oxidative stress, antioxidants, homocysteine metabolism, vegetable extracts, folate, Vitamin B6, lipid peroxidation