Protective Role of Pterospermum acerifolium Ethyl Acetate Extract Against Aspirin-Induced Gastric Ulceration in Mice

Abstract

     Background: Gastric ulcer disease is a chronic ailment due to an imbalance between the aggressive factors present in gastric mucosal tissue and the protective ability of mastication, leading to the harm of mucous membrane and gastrointestinal destruction. These natural agents decrease gastric acid either by suppressing gastric acid secretion (acid suppressors), antacids, and cytoprotective agents (a kind of substance that protects cells from dying). Nevertheless, prolonged therapy with these agents is frequently associated with side effects and thus safer phytomedicinal approaches are urgently required. Pterospermum acerifolium has drawn attention because of its abundant phytochemical contents and documented antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. Aims: This study was designed to investigate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of phytochemicals in Pterospermum acerifolium extract against aspirin-induced gastric ulceration in murine model. Results: Phytochemical screening (including HPLC, FTIR and LC-MS/MS) signalled the presence of multiple bioactive compounds in P. acerifolium extract. Histopathological examination revealed marked mucosal damage in ulcerated group as compared to omeprazole and P. acerifolium treated groups with preserved gastric mucosa integrity. Inflammatory cell infiltration and the architecture of the gastric mucosa were markedly improved after the administration of extract, and this protective effect may be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Conclusions: The results show that P. acerifolium extract fraction has a good gastroprotection and may be candidate for potential therapeutic perspective.