OKOYE, CHIOMA RITA

This study comprehensively examines the phytochemical composition and physiological effects of Glycine Max extract on Wistar rats, shedding light on its potential therapeutic applications. Through qualitative analysis, the extract was found to contain a diverse array of phytochemicals, including reducing sugars, saponins, flavonoids, phenolics, eugenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, and proteins. Three (3) groups (A-C) of six (6) each were created from the eighteen (18) juvenile Wistar rats (PND 42) that ranged in weight from 35g to 69.5g and were the offspring of DAMS. Group A served as the reference point (control) while B and C were the therapy groups, 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of Glycine max aqueous extract, respectively, were administered to them as treatment. With the aid of an orogastric tube, the DAMS was fed orally for the duration of its four-week treatment. At the conclusion of six (6) weeks, the juveniles were fed, weighed, and slaughtered. Detailed physiological assessments, including animal weights and organ weights, were conducted, revealing dose-dependent changes in body mass and
relative organ weights. Histological analysis of tissue samples provided insights into the extract's impact on tissue morphology and integrity. Furthermore, antioxidant activity was evaluated through assays measuring catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde levels, indicating the extract's potential to modulate oxidative stress pathways. The findings underscore the multifaceted biochemical and physiological effects of Glycine Max extract, suggesting its promising role as a therapeutic agent. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate its mechanisms of action and explore its clinical applications in treating various pathological conditions.