Haematological Profile and Nephroprotective Effect of Ethylacetate Extract of Persea americana (Avocado pear) Seed in Acetaminophen Induced Wistar Rats

Hematological profile and the nephroprotective activity of ethyl acetate extract of Persea americana  seeds was investigated in albino rats. Twenty- five (25) rats (125 – 176 g) were randomly grouped into five. Rats in group 1 served as control; group 2 were orally administered with 750mg/kg acetaminophen; animals in group 3 were fed simultaneously with 750 mg/kg acetaminophen and 200mg/kg silymarin; while, groups 4 and 5 were administered with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of Persea americana seed extract respectively, for 14 days. Results of haematological analysis, for groups 3,4 and 5,  revealed  significant (p<0.05) elevation in the concentration of white blood cells and platelets  and a decrease in the levels of Hb, RBC, Neutrophil, Monocytes, Eosinophil and PCV  as compared to groups 1 and 2. Results on renal function parameters showed that acetaminophen treatment caused nephrotoxicity as evidenced by marked elevation in serum urea and creatinine. Co-administration of Persea americana seed extract decreased the rise in these parameters in a dose dependent manner. Serum electrolyte indices also indicated increase in K⁺ and Mg²⁺ concentrations, and a decrease in Ca²⁺ concentration  for groups 3,4 and 5. These results revealed that the use of the extract in phytotherapy may produce adverse side effects such as anaemia while ameliorating nephrotoxicity.