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[Experimental pathological study of subacute intoxication by Dioscorea bulbifera L]
Li Su1, Jian-hua Zhu, Li-bao Cheng
1Department of Forensic Pathology, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, China.
Fa Yi Xue Za Zhi
|August 9, 2003
Summary
Dioscorea bulbifera L causes liver and kidney damage in mice by directly harming mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum membranes, affecting cellular metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pathology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Dioscorea bulbifera L. is traditionally used but its toxicity is not fully understood.
- Investigating the toxicological profile of medicinal plants is crucial for safe usage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the pathological changes induced by Dioscorea bulbifera L. in mice.
- To determine the toxicological mechanism of Dioscorea bulbifera L.
Main Methods:
- Sixty ICR mice were administered varying doses of Dioscorea bulbifera L. or distilled water.
- Pathological examinations were conducted using light microscopy (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
- Serum biochemical markers (BUN, ALT) and enzyme activities (G-6-P, SDH) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Significant pathological changes observed in the liver (fatty changes, increased glycogen) and kidneys (tubular degeneration/necrosis).
- Elevated serum BUN and ALT levels in treated groups compared to controls.
- Decreased activity of Glucose-6-phosphatase (G-6-P) and Succinate Dehydrogenase (SDH) in liver cells.
Conclusions:
- The liver and kidney are primary target organs for Dioscorea bulbifera L. toxicity.
- The toxic mechanism involves direct damage to mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum membranes.
- Impaired cellular metabolism, indicated by reduced SDH and G-6-P activity, results from membrane damage.