Expression of AKT and PTEN genes in benzene-induced haematotoxicity bearing wistar rats treated with a dual-mixture of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus extract

Background: Recognizing the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and blood-boosting properties of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus, this study investigated if their combined aqueous extract could mitigate benzene-induced blood toxicity in rats. The study specifically analyzed changes in AKT and PTEN gene expression, which are key regulators of inflammatory and oxidative pathways, to understand the mechanism of potential protection. Methods: The study involved 60 male Wistar rats, divided into six groups, to evaluate the effect of a Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus leaf extract blend on GSK3? and AMPK mRNA levels. The groups were: control (A), benzene (B), cyclophosphamide (C), and benzene with 100 mg/kg (D), 200 mg/kg (E), or 400 mg/kg (F) of the extract. PCR was used to measure gene expression, and GraphPad Prism was used for data analysis. Results: Compared to group A, groups B, C, D, and E showed significantly higher levels of both AKT and PTEN mRNA. PTEN expression was also notably decreased in group F compared to group C, with group D exhibiting the highest PTEN expression overall (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed that the treatment significantly altered AKT and PTEN expression. To fully understand the therapeutic potential of this plant mixture in treating blood toxicity, long-term studies and clinical trials are necessary.