Comprehensive dose-dependent hepatorenal protective effects of Ziziphus nummularia leaf extract against quinolphos-induced toxicity in Wistar rats

Quinolphos pose considerable hepatorenal toxicity risks, potentially necessitating the investigation of natural protective agents. This study assessed the pharmacological effects of <i>Z. nummularia</i> leaf extract in mitigating quinolphos-induced toxicity in male Wistar rats (n = 30) through comprehensive histopathological and behavioural evaluations. Animals were randomly divided into five groups: control, quinolphos-induced, vehicle control (300 mg/kg), and two treatment groups receiving <i>Z. nummularia</i> leaf extract at low dose (250 mg/kg) and high dose (500 mg/kg).The quinolphos-treated group displayed severe behavioural impairments, characterised by reduced locomotor activity, coarse coat texture, and substantial weight loss, with extensive histopathological damage in hepatic and renal tissues. Kidney sections exhibited significant glomerular cell debris and atrophy, abnormalities in the basement membrane, tubular degeneration, interstitial oedema, and tubular necrosis. The liver examination revealed significant changes in hepatocyte morphology, portal structures, leukocyte infiltration, sinusoidal congestion, and hepatocyte necrosis. The administration of <i>Z. nummularia</i> extract exhibited notable dose-dependent protective effects. The high-dose group demonstrated nearly complete histopathological recovery, with no detectable glomerular debris, tubular injury, or tubular necrosis in the kidneys, minimal hepatocyte changes, and total restoration of vascular integrity in liver tissue. Behavioural enhancements correlated with histopathological observations, reflecting a gradual restoration of appetite, activity levels, and overall clinical status. All treatment groups exhibited 100% survival during the experimental period. These findings reveal substantial evidence validating the pharmacological effects of <i>Z. nummularia</i> as a natural hepatoprotective and nephroprotective agent against organophosphate-induced organ damage.