Effect of theobromine on serum total protein, albumin, iron and transferrin in albino rats

Abstract

The effect of theobromine, a cocoa alkaloid, on total serum protein, albumin, iron and transferrin were investigated in albino rats of wistar strain. Theobromine was administered intraperitoneally to three groups of rats B, C, and D, weighing between 200-250g averagely. Groups B, C and D respectively received 2.5mg/kg body weight, 5.0mg/kg body weight and 7.5mg/kg body weight of theobromine repeatedly for 3 days and the control group A received physiological saline. Blood obtained from the sacrificed animal 24 hours later was collected in iron-free centrifuge tube, allowed to clot for an hour and serum separated by centrifugation. Results obtained showed that there was a statistically significant (P<0.05) dose dependent increase in mean serum iron in the test groups B, C and D. However serum transferrin levels showed a statistically significant (P< 0.05) decrease in the test groups B, C and D compared with control. Mean values of total serum protein in group B, C and D showed no significant difference (P>0.05) when compared with the control. Also serum albumin showed no significant difference (P>0.05) in the test groups from the control. Consequence of elevated serum iron and lowered transferrin levels are discussed in relation to iron transport and erythropoiesis.

Key Words: Theobromine, iron binding, wistar rats, cocoa alkaloids

Biokemistri Vol.16(2) 2004: 102-105