Protective And Antioxidant Properties Of “Aqueous Anti-ulcer Drug “Aqaud”, Against Aspirin-induced Gastric Ulcers In Rats

ABSTRACT 

The protective and antioxidant properties of Aqueous Anti-ulcer Drug (AQAUD) against Aspirin-induced gastric ulcers in albino rats were investigated. In this study, thirty male albino rats were divided into five groups. Rats in group I served as normal control and received food and water. Animals in group II received food and water in addition to aspirin 400mg/kg.b.wt orally on the 14th day. Rats in groups III, IV and V received “AQAUD” 250mg/kg.b.wt, 500mg/kg.b.wt and Omeprazole 20mg/kg.b.wt respectively for 14 days and aspirin 400mg/kg.b.wt orally on the 14th day. Antioxidant property of “AQAUD” was determined by its ability to scavenge nitric oxide and hydroxyl radicals in vitro. The ulcer protective effect of “AQAUD” was assessed by determining the free and total acidity, ulcer index, % protection, and total protein and nitrite concentrations in the stomach homogenates. The antioxidant potential in animals was evaluated by determining the concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) activities were assayed in the stomach homogenates to further assess antioxidant potential. Acute toxicity testing was done to ascertain the safety of “AQAUD”. Total phenolics and flavonoid compounds were quantified to know the antioxidant content. Histopathological assessment of the gastric mucosa was used to assess the protective potentials of “AQAUD”. The results revealed that free and total acidity, ulcer indexes were significantly (p