Therapeutic Potential of Terminalia Catappa in Managing Lipid Dysregulation and Protein Imbalance in Trypanosoma Evansi Infection

Abstract: This study evaluated the effects of ethanol extracts of Terminalia catappa stem on lipid profiles and total protein levels in Trypanosoma evansi infected mice. The study observed significant increases in serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels in infected mice, alongside reduced total protein levels, confirming lipid dysregulation and protein imbalance associated with trypanosome infections. Treatment with T. catappa stem extract at dosages of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg resulted in a marked reduction in cholesterol and triglycerides and a restoration of total protein levels, with the 500 mg/kg dose showing the most pronounced effects. The antihyperlipidemic effects of T. catappa are attributed to its phytochemical composition, particularly saponins, flavonoids, and tannins, which act to inhibit lipid absorption and regulate bile acid metabolism. Flavonoids also contributed to antioxidant activity, mitigating oxidative stress associated with lipid peroxidation during infection. The extract outperformed the standard drug, imidocarb, in modulating lipid levels, suggesting its therapeutic potential for managing metabolic disturbances caused by trypanosomiasis. These findings provide a basis for further pharmacological research into T. catappa as a plant-based treatment for parasitic infections, particularly in addressing lipid and protein imbalances in Trypanosoma evansi-infected hosts.

Keywords: Trypanosoma evansi, Terminalia catappa, Lipid Dysregulation, Protein Metabolism