Anti-hepatocellular carcinoma effect of an alkaloidal extract derived from Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides

Abstract

Background: The global burden of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) has increased. Consequently, exploring newer treatment modalities for HCC such as herbal medicines has become a necessary. Objective: The study investigated anti HCC effects of an alkaloidal extract derived from leaves of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides. Materials and methods: Alkaloidal extract (ZZAE) from cleaned dried leaves of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides was prepared using Soxhlet extraction and liquid-liquid extraction methods and then phytochemically analyzed. CCl4/olive oil HCC was induced in rats and subjects grouped into 6 groups 10 after the HCC was established, except for the control group with no HCC and the prophylaxis group with concurrent induction and treatment. Anti HCC effects of ZZAE, was assessed in CCl4/olive oil-induced HCC of rats by prophylactic treatment with ZZAE (100 mg/kg po) and curatively with ZZAE (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg po) daily for nine weeks. Results: Soxhlet extraction yielded 462.806 g (10.59%) of crude extract that contained terpenoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, and phenol. Liquid-liquid extraction for alkaloids yielded 119.349 g (2.73%). ZZAE produced a concentration dependent inhibition of growth of A. cepa root tip meristems. ZZAE also improved all liver enzyme indices and liver histology in a dose-dependent manner. ZZAE treatment restored loss in bodyweight relative to the model. ZZAE prevented progression of fibrosis into HCC. Conclusion: ZZAE demonstrated anti-HCC effects that needs further studies.