Phytosuppression of Plasmodium Berghei Growth by Alchornea Cordifolia by Expression of 4-Hydroxynonenal in Conjunctive

Student: EMMANUEL CHUKWUFUNANYA NWAOLISA (Project, 2025)
Department of Medical Biochemistry
Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State


Abstract

This research investigates the potential phytosuppressive effects of Alchornea cordifolia on Plasmodium berghei growth, focusing on the expression of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in conjunctival tissues. The study employs a murine model and evaluates the efficacy of ethanol leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia (EEAc) at varying doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg) against P. berghei infection. Parasitemia levels were assessed, and eye function markers, histopathological changes, and oxidative markers were analyzed. The results demonstrate significant parasite suppression, with higher EEAc doses exhibiting enhanced efficacy. Additionally, EEAc showed potential in modulating oxidative markers and ameliorating histopathological alterations induced by the infection. These findings suggest the potential of Alchornea cordifolia as a natural anti-malarial agent and highlight its possible role in alleviating malaria-induced oxidative stress and histopathological changes in the eyes. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and validate its therapeutic potential.

Keywords
Malaria Plasmodium BERGHEI