The Protective Effect of Boswellia dalzielii Hutch Extract on Ocular Markers of Oxidative Stress in Selenite-Induced Cataractous Pups: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The effect of BOSWELLIA DALZIELII Hutch extract on ocular markers of oxidative stress of selenite-induced
cataractous pups was investigated in wistar rat pups. Nine groups of 5 pups each were used for the
pharmacological studies. Group 1 received normal saline, groups 2 to 9 received 30 µmol/kg BW of
sodium selenite. Eight days post administration of selenite, the opacity were determined with an
ophthalmoscope and from these, the presence of cataract was established after which the treatment
commenced and lasted for 28 days. The extract was administered at doses of 300 mg/kg body weight,
400 mg/kg 500 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg and 700 mg/kg to groups 5 to 9 respectively; groups 3 and 4 received
50mg/kg each of vitamins C and A respectively; while groups 1 and 2 received water in place of the
extract. Ocular antioxidative enzymes activities (Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT),
Glutathione peroxidase (GPx)) and reduced glutathione, ascorbic acid, malondialdehyde and total
protein levels were estimated using standard methods. The extract in a dose dependent manner
significantly (p<0.05) lowered ocular catalase activity. The extract improved the ocular concentration of
reduced glutathione and total protein. Also obtained were non-significant decrease in ocular activities
of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and levels of ascorbic acid. The overall experimental
results indicate that BOSWELLIA DALZIELII Hutch leaf extract is a potential anti-oxidant modulator for the
development of anti-cataract formulation.