Protective Effect of Carica papaya Extracts Against Lead Bioaccumulation in Albino Rats

AbstractBackground Exposure to lead produces a variety of adverse health effects. This study evaluated the protective effect ofCarica papayaleaves(CPL) and seed (CPS) against lead bioaccumulation in albino rats. Methods Thirty male rats weighing 174-196g were assigned to six groups of five animals receiving various treatments: group 1- control; 2-50mg/kg body weight (BW) lead nitrate (PbNO3); 3- 500 mg/kg BW CPL extract; 4- 500 mg/kg BW CPS extract; 5- 50mg/kg BW PbNO3 + 500mg/kg BW CPL; and 6- 50mg/kg BW PbNO3 + 500mg/kg CPS orally for 31 days. Results The study revealed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in lead bioaccumulation in liver and kidney of the lead treated groups complemented with CPL (0.72 ± 0.28mg/l and 0.85 ± 0.17mg/l) and CPS (0.29 ± 0.10mg/l and 0.36 ± 0.10mg/l), compared to the liver and kidney of animals in the group treated with lead alone (11.32 ± 3.20mg/l and 14.62 ± 3.78mg/l).The reduction in bioaccumulation was however non-significantly higher (P > 0.05) in the group complemented with CPS than CPL. Conclusion This finding suggests that CPL and CPS have the potential of reducing lead bioaccumulation and could be harnessed by pharmaceutical industries for this potential.