Chemical composition, <i>in vivo</i> immunomodulatory and anti-hyperlipidaemic properties of <i>Rhinoceros</i> (Rhino) oil in lead-induced immunocompromised models

Abstract

A knowledge of the chemical content of Rhinoceros (Rhino) oil and its activity on selected biomolecules of experimental models would help boost the immune system against an immunocompromised COVID-19 status. The study seeks to evaluate the chemical and biomolecular profile of Rhino oil. Chemical profile was done using standard methods of analysis. 25 rats were assigned in five groups (A-E) (n=5). Animals in group A (control) were administered 0.5 ml of distilled water while those in groups B-E which were immunocompromised (by intraperitoneal administration of 5 mg/kg body weight (b.w) of lead [Pb]) were also administered distilled water, immunomodulatory drug (5 mg/kg body weight of zinc [Zn]), 2 and 5 mg/kg b.w of Rhino oil extract respectively, once daily for 8 days followed by biomolecular assay. Proximate analysis gave moisture content (14.37±0.29), among others. FAMEs analysis showed hexadecanoic acid (12.80%) and other esters. Lipid profile of the oil gave LDLC to contain (32.90±0.53 mg/L), and others. The physicochemical properties gave iodine value as (115.80±0.40 mg/g), among others. The metal composition revealed Zn (0.28±0.06) plus others. The amnio acid profile of the oil gave ten essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids respectively. The levels of biomolecules in serum of the animals were altered at specific doses of the oil extract. Altogether, the chemical content of the oil was significantly high, with altered biomolecular effect. The rich content of vital nutrients and chemicals of Rhino oil may boost the white blood cells against COVID-19. The isolation and characterization of the active principles of the oil is encouraged.