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.