Protective Effect of Pawpaw (Carica papaya) Seed Extract on Cadmium-Induced Hepatic Inflammation in Albino Rats

Pawpaw (Carica papaya) seeds contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. Liver diseases are prevalent in Nigeria, with cadmium exposure being a major toxicological risk factor. This study investigated the protective effect of pawpaw seed extract against cadmium-induced hepatic inflammation in albino rats. Three hundred grams of powdered pawpaw seed were extracted with 70% ethanol, yielding 15.2 g. Acute toxicity testing using Lorke’s method (1983) showed no mortality at doses up to 5000 mg/kg body weight. Thirty-five albino rats were divided into seven groups (n=5): normal control, cadmium-induced untreated (negative control), silymarin-treated (100 mg/kg), and groups pre- or post-treated with pawpaw seed extract (50 and 150 mg/kg). Cadmium was administered orally at 5 mg/kg to induce hepatic inflammation, after which treatments were applied. Haematological parameters revealed significant decreases (P<0.05) in Hb, PCV, WBC, and RBC in untreated rats compared with both normal control and extract-treated groups. Liver function tests showed no significant changes in direct bilirubin and ALT, but ALP increased significantly in treated rats. Kidney function analysis revealed significant elevations (P<0.05) in creatinine, urea, and Na+ levels in treated groups compared with control. Lipid profile analysis demonstrated significant reductions (P<0.05) in total cholesterol, TAG, and LDL in rats treated with pawpaw seed extract. Body weight gain was observed in all extract-treated groups. In conclusion, pawpaw seed extract exhibited hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant properties, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate against cadmium-induced hepatic injury.