Does Bougainvillea spectabilis protect Swiss Albino Mice from Aflatoxin-induced Hepatotoxicity?

We have investigated the protective effect of oral administration of the ethanolic extract of Bougainvillea spectabilis leaves against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1 ) induced hepatic injuries among male Swiss albino mice. AFB1 exposure has significantly increased (P< 0.05) the lipid peroxidase activity and decreased the activities of various antioxidant enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase (57.58%), catalase (24.14%), glutathione peroxidase (44.21%), glutathione S-transferase (44.07%) and glutathione reductase (13.51%). It also declined the level of ascorbic acid, reduced glutathione and protein contents by 47%, 34% and 24% respectively. It markedly decreased lipid peroxidation (TBARS level) with concomitant stimulation (P < 0.05) of antioxidants (enzymatic and non – enzymatic both). HPTLC analysis revealed availability of sufficient amount of flavonoids, alkaloids and phenolic compounds in the extract of B. spectabilis leaves might be responsible for the improved efficiency of antioxidant system and subsequent protection from aflatoxicity.