AMELIORATING EFFECTS OF CHLOROFORM EXTRACT OF Phyllantus amarus AND Piper guineense ON 1,2-DIMETHYLHYDRAZINE INDUCED CANCER ON WISTAR RAT.

Colorectal cancer is a major health concern worldwide, characterized by uncontrolled cell growth in the colon or rectum. While conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and surgery exist, they can be physically and emotionally taxing. This study investigates the ameliorating effects of chloroform extracts of Phyllanthus amarus and Piper guineense on 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)- induced colorectal cancer in Wistar rats. The research aimed to determine the potential of these plant extracts in mitigating oxidative stress and tissue damage caused by DMH exposure. 18 male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: a control group, a DMH-only group, and a treatment group receiving DMH along with 250 mg/kg of the chloroform extract. DMH was administered orally using a dolphin’s gavage for 8 weeks (twice a week).At the end of DMH administration, 250 mg/kg bwt of Chloroform fraction of P.amarus and P.guinensis were administered with the aid of a dolphin’s gavage for 2 weeks (daily) treatment period. Biochemical markers such as liver and kidney function enzymes, oxidative stress indicators (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and malondialdehyde), and serum electrolytes as well as Tumor Protein 53(TP53)were analyzed. The results indicated a significant increase in oxidative stress markers in the DMH-only group, while rats treated with the plant extracts exhibited improved antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced markers of tissue damage. These findings suggest that Phyllanthus amarus and Piper guineense possess potential chemoprotective properties against DMH-induced colorectal cancer through antioxidant mechanisms. Further research is necessary to explore their clinical applicability and potential therapeutic benefits in cancer prevention and treatment.