Antioxidant properties and membrane stabilization effects of methanol extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves on normal and sickle erythrocytes

This study was aimed at investigating the antioxidant properties and membrane stabilization effects of Mucuna pruriens leaves on sickle erythrocyte as a possible means of sickle cell disease management. Pulverized plant material was extracted with methanol, filtered and concentrated at reduced pressure with a rotary evaporator. Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant studies of the extract were carried out using standard methods. Blood samples of volunteer sickle cell patients and healthy individuals used in the study were collected from the University of Nigeria Medical Centre and University campus community, Nsukka respectively. The genotypes of the individuals were confirmed by cellulose acetate paper electrophoresis. Water induced haemolysis of human red blood cell was used to assess membrane stabilization of the erythrocytes. Phytochemical result of the extract showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, terpenoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides and anthraquinones. Antioxidant vitamins C and E were present in concentrations of 495.36 mg/100 g and 101.03 mg/100 g respectively. The percentage (%) scavenging activity of the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and hydroxyl radical by the extract was significant. The extract exhibited membrane stabilization on both normal and sickle erythrocytes. The percentage (%) inhibition of haemolysis by the extract in both normal and sickle erythrocytes at different concentrations of 100, 200, 400, 600 and 800 μg/ml were significant and concentration dependent. We conclude that M. pruriens leaves have antioxidant properties and erythrocyte membrane stabilizing potentials and could be recommended for use in the management of patients with sickle cell anaemia.