Biochemical changes associated with the consumption of calcium carbide ripened plantain in wistar rats

Abstract

Dietary exposure to chemical toxicants introduced during post-harvest fruit handling has been associated with adverse metabolic and organ-specific effects. This study evaluated the effects of diets formulated with naturally ripened plantain (NRP) and calcium carbide-ripened plantain (CRP) on liver function, lipid profile and oxidative stress parameters in albino Wistar rats. Eighteen (18) male rats weighing 120 ± 4.25 g were randomized into three groups (n=7). Group I (control), II, and III were fed normal rat chow, NRP, and CRP diets, respectively. After 35 days of feeding, the fasted animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, and blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical and histopathological analyses. Results obtained showed significant increase (p < 0.05) in serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in the CRP group compared with the control and NRP groups, while alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) remained unchanged. Total bilirubin levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.05), whereas direct bilirubin levels were significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in the CRP group. Serum albumin and total protein concentrations did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) among the groups. Rats fed CRP diet also exhibited significant reductions (p < 0.05) in serum glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, whereas high-density (HDL) showed no significant (p > 0.05) change. Hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities, protein concentration, and malondialdehyde levels were comparable across all groups. Histological examinations revealed mild hepatic alterations, including hydropic and fatty changes, in the CRP-fed rats, while the control and NRP groups showed normal liver architecture. These findings underscore the potential health risks associated with calcium carbide-ripening and the need for healthier alternatives.