Evaluating the Effect of Datura Stramonium Aqueous Extract on Cadmium-Induced Toxicity in the Cerebrum of Adult Male Wistar Rats

Cadmium (Cd) is a widely recognized environmental toxicant that induces
oxidative stress and disrupts enzymatic activities, resulting in significant damage to
various organs, including the brain. This study explores the potential effects of
Datura stramonium, a medicinal plant rich in bioactive compounds, on
cadmium-induced cerebral toxicity. Twenty-five male Wistar rats, weighing
100-140 g, were acclimatized for two weeks before the experiment and housed
under standard conditions. Cadmium chloride (30 mg/kg) was administered
intraperitoneally, while Datura Stramonium extract (200 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg)
was prepared through aqueous extraction and administered orally. The experiment
spanned 28 days. At the end of the study, the rats were sacrificed via cervical
dislocation. Blood and brain tissue samples were collected for biochemical
analyses, focusing on oxidative stress markers and key cerebral enzymes.
This study aims to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of Datura Stramonium on
cadmium-induced cerebral toxicity in the cerebrum of adult male Wistar rats. The
specific objectives include assessing the activities of glucose-6-phosphate
dehydrogenase (G6PD), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), sorbitol dehydrogenase
(SDH), and xanthine oxidase (XO) in the cerebrum.
Cadmium exposure significantly elevated the activities of lactate dehydrogenase
(LDH) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), indicating tissue damage
and oxidative stress in the cerebrum of adult male Wistar rats. Conversely, a
marked reduction was observed in the activity of sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH),
suggesting impaired cellular metabolism. No significant increase or reduction was
recorded in xanthine oxidase (XO) activity.
From the above findings it can be deduced that cadmium induces neurotoxicity
primarily through oxidative stress and metabolic disruption. The observed enzyme
alterations highlight the potential protective role of Datura Stramonium in
mitigating cadmium-induced biochemical and neuronal damage.