Phytochemical screening and protective effects of Trifolium alexandrinum (L.) against free radical-induced stress in rats

Trifolium alexandrinum is traditionally used in various human ailments, including renal dysfunctions. The present experiment was designed to investigate antioxidant and nephroprotective effect of T. alexandrinum methanolic extract (TAME) against CCl4-induced oxidative stress in albino rats. Results of in vitro study revealed significant (P < 0.05) antioxidant effects. The ameliorative role of TAME was also examined by investigating the level of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), nonenzymatic antioxidant viz; reduced glutathione contents (GSH) and lipid peroxidation products (TBARS) in the renal tissue homogenate in CCl4-treated rats. The intraperitoneal injection of 1 mL/kg b.w. CCl4 caused a significant depletion in the activity antioxidant enzymes and increased the TBARS contents. Supplementation of TAME at 200 mg/kg b.w. for 2 weeks significantly improved activities of antioxidant enzymes and reduced TBARS formation. Co-treatment of TAME also presented significant protection in maintaining renal urine and serum markers. Antioxidant and nephroprotective effects of TAME are associated with its polyphenolic constituents.