Hepatoprotective Effects of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract on Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats: A Histomorphometric Analysis

Acetaminophen overdose is one of the leading causes of drug-induced hepatotoxicity globally, and the search for hepatoprotective phytotherapeutic agents remains a priority in pharmacological research. Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree, is widely consumed in Nigeria and is reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties attributable to its flavonoid, phenolic, and glucosinolate content. This study aims to evaluate the hepatoprotective efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaf extract against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats through histomorphometric analysis of hepatic architecture. Forty rats will be assigned to five groups: control, acetaminophen-only, acetaminophen plus low-dose extract, acetaminophen plus high-dose extract, and extract-only groups. Liver sections stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome will be examined for hepatocyte necrosis, inflammatory infiltrate, hepatic lobular architecture preservation, and periportal fibrosis. Hepatocyte nuclear diameter and mean hepatocyte area will be quantified using image analysis software. Serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels will provide biochemical correlates of histological findings. The study anticipates demonstrating dose-dependent hepatoprotection, providing anatomical evidence for the clinical utility of Moringa oleifera in hepatic injury prevention.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, hepatotoxicity, hepatoprotection, histomorphometry, acetaminophen