Phytotherapeutic intervention of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) against mercury chloride-induced cerebellar damage in wistar rats: a histopathological analysis

Abstract

Mercury exposure poses significant risks to human health and the environment, causing neurological damage and oxidative stress. Conversely, Syzygium aromaticum, offers medicinal benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the effects of aqueous extract of Syzygium aromaticum (AESA) on mercury chloride-induced cerebellar damage in Wistar rats. Thirty six (36) rats were assigned into six groups of six rats each. Group A (Control) received 1 ml of distilled water, B [4 mg/kg mercury chloride (HgCl2)], C (250 mg/kg AESA), D (500 mg/kg AESA), E (250 mg/kg AESA and 4 mg/kg HgCl2) and F (500 mg/kg AESA and 4 mg/kg HgCl2). Following 28 days of oral treatment, rats were euthanized via cervical dislocation, the cerebella were harvested, weighed and analyzed for histological changes. Findings from the study showed no significant difference (p>0.05) in the cerebellar and relative cerebellar weights of rats treated with mercury and AESA when compared to control. Histological findings showed cerebellar alterations, marked by degeneration of Purkinje cells with abnormal nuclei and vacuolation in the Granular cell layer of HgCl₂-exposed rats. However, relatively normal histo-architecture of the cerebellum, marked by intact cerebellar layers and cells was observed in HgCl₂-exposed rats pretreated with AESA. Conclusively, S. aromaticum demonstrated neuroprotective activity, underscoring its therapeutic potential in attenuating the neurological damage linked to heavy metal exposure.