Kolaviron and Garcinia kola attenuate doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar rats

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Cardiology
• Natural Product Research

Background:

• Garcinia kola seeds possess antibacterial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and chemopreventive properties.
• Doxorubicin, an anticancer drug, is associated with severe side effects, notably cardiotoxicity.
• Investigating natural compounds for cardioprotection against chemotherapy-induced damage is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cardioprotective effects of Kolaviron and Garcinia kola against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action for this cardioprotective effect.

Main Methods:

• Sixty male Wistar rats were divided into six groups.
• Doxorubicin (15 mg/kg) was administered to induce cardiotoxicity.
• Pre-treatment with Kolaviron (100, 200 mg/kg) or Garcinia kola (100, 200 mg/kg) was performed for 7 days.

Main Results:

• Doxorubicin significantly increased heart rate, prolonged QT interval, reduced antioxidant status, and elevated oxidative stress, inflammation, and cardiac damage markers.
• Pre-treatment with Kolaviron and Garcinia kola reversed these doxorubicin-induced negative effects.
• Cardioprotection was evidenced by improved antioxidant enzyme activity and reduced inflammatory markers.

Conclusions:

• Kolaviron and Garcinia kola demonstrate significant cardioprotective potential against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.
• These natural compounds mitigate cardiac damage and ECG alterations by enhancing antioxidant defense and suppressing inflammation.
• Findings support the use of Garcinia kola derivatives as adjunct therapy to reduce doxorubicin's cardiac side effects.