Modulatory Effects of Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract on Sodium Nitrate-Induced Experimental Colitis via Regulation of P53, Ki-67 and PCNA Biomarkers

Background Ulcerative colitis is a risk factor for colorectal carcinoma. Different mechanisms are related to colitis like apoptosis and hyperproliferation. Moringa oleifera leaves extract (MO) provides a promising option to overcome the risk. Purpose To examine the colonic changes in a rat model of colitis induced by sodium nitrate (SN) and study the effects of MO. Study design Eight adult male rats were allocated in each of the three group; control (distilled water), SN (100mg/kg/day, orally via gastric gavage), and SN + MO (100mg/kg/day, orally via gastric gavage). Methods Body weight was measured after the end of the experiment. Colonic homogenates were tested for levels of oxidative stress indicators. Immunohistochemistry for P53, PCNA and Ki-67 was performed. Fresh colon specimens were used for quantitative real-time PCR for assessment of P53, PCNA and Ki-67 gene expression. Results SN group revealed a significant decreased weight (p = 0.002). MDA and NO levels were higher with SN administration than with MO co-administration (p= 0.04, 0.01 respectively). GSH level was reduced in SN group (p = 0.02) and significantly increased with MO intake (p = 0.04). SN-induced colonic destructive changes were reversed with MO. P53, PCNA and Ki-67 levels of gene expression were reduced in SN + MO group than SN group (P = 0.007, 0.02, 0.001 respectively). Conclusion MO protected the colonic mucosa against SN-induced changes regulating apoptosis, and cell proliferation.