Evaluation of Acute Toxicity and Therapeutic Potential of Oil Palm Leaf Extract (OPLE) as an Antioxidant and Immunosuppressant
Acute Toxicity and Therapeutic Effects of Oil Palm Leaf Extract
Abstract
The expansion of oil palm plantations in Indonesia generates substantial palm frond and petiole waste annually. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis of Oil Palm Leaves Extract (OPLE) reveals the presence of key flavonoids, such as epigallocatechin, similar to those in tea. Despite these findings, OPLE's medicinal applications remain underexplored. This study aims to assess OPLE’s antioxidant and immunosuppressant potential, thereby enhancing the value of oil palm frond waste. OPLE was prepared using sonication and enzymatic biotransformation to maximize bioactive properties. Two toxicity tests were conducted at low (2 and 5 g/kg BW) and high doses (10, 15, and 20 g/kg BW) over 14 days. Blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes. Liver and kidney tissues underwent histological analysis. Immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects were studied using LPS-induced mouse models, flow cytometry (NRF2, SOD, CD68, CD4, B220, and B220 IgG markers), and histopathological assessments. Low-dose OPLE administration in male and female mice demonstrated no gender-specific differences or toxicity, but a stable data of body weight in female mice. At higher doses (up to 20 g/kg BW), OPLE exhibited no toxicity, classifying it as relatively safe under LD50 standards. Immunomodulatory studies highlighted OPLE’s potential to increase NRF2 and SOD levels after LPS administration, suggesting an antioxidant activity. Flow cytometry indicated OPLE's ability to maintain immune cell integrity, while histopathology showed reduced kidney and liver necrosis. These findings underscore OPLE’s promise as a safe and effective antioxidant and immunosuppressant agent, offering valuable applications for oil palm waste.
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