Uterotonic Activities of Ficus asperifolia Fruit Extracts in Rats
Author Information
Author(s): Pierre Watcho, Esther Ngadjui, Nkeng-Efouet Pepin Alango, Benoît Nguelefack Telesphore, Kamanyi Albert
Primary Institution: University of Dschang, Cameroon
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the uterotonic activities of Ficus asperifolia and investigate its mechanism.
Conclusion
Ficus asperifolia induces uterotonic effects in the isolated rat uterus through mechanisms involving prostaglandins and various receptors.
Supporting Evidence
- Aqueous and methanol extracts of F. asperifolia evoked concentration-dependent contractions of the rat uterus.
- The aqueous extract had an EC50 of 0.36 mg/mL, while the methanol extract had an EC50 of 0.22 mg/mL.
- Oxytocin was found to be the most potent agonist with an EC50 of 0.02 nM.
- Atropine and indomethacin were shown to block the contractile responses to the extracts.
- Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids and saponins in the extracts.
Takeaway
This study found that a plant called Ficus asperifolia can help make the uterus contract, which is important for things like childbirth.
Methodology
The study used estrogenized isolated rat uterus to evaluate the effects of aqueous and methanol extracts of F. asperifolia on uterine contractions.
Limitations
The study did not characterize the direct implication of oxytocic receptors due to the absence of a specific antagonist.
Participant Demographics
Healthy non-pregnant adult female Wistar rats aged 10-12 weeks and weighing 150-170g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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