THE EFFECT OF WATER EXTRACT OF COLA NITIDA POD

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Cola nitida, commonly known as Kola nut, is a plant native to West Africa and is popular for its stimulant properties. The water extract of Cola nitida pod has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, but its effects have not been extensively studied. This research project aimed to investigate the potential effects of the water extract of Cola nitida pod on various biological systems. The study involved the preparation of the water extract of Cola nitida pod using standard methods. The extract was then subjected to phytochemical analysis to identify the presence of various bioactive compounds. The in vitro antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated using DPPH and ABTS assays. Additionally, the extract was tested for its potential antibacterial activity against selected bacterial strains using the disc diffusion method. Furthermore, the effect of the water extract of Cola nitida pod on mammalian cells was assessed using cell viability assays. The extract was tested for its cytotoxicity and potential to induce apoptosis in human cancer cells. The expression of key apoptotic markers was also evaluated using Western blot analysis. Moreover, the impact of the extract on animal models was investigated. Acute and sub-acute toxicity studies were conducted to determine the safety profile of the extract. The extract was administered to rats at different doses, and various parameters including body weight, organ weight, and histopathological changes were analyzed. The results of the study revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins in the water extract of Cola nitida pod. The extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity in both DPPH and ABTS assays. It also demonstrated moderate antibacterial activity against the tested bacterial strains. In the cell viability assays, the extract showed selective cytotoxicity towards cancer cells, with minimal effects on normal cells. The extract induced apoptosis in cancer cells, as evidenced by the upregulation of apoptotic markers. The acute and sub-acute toxicity studies indicated that the extract was safe at tested doses, with no significant adverse effects observed in the animal models. Overall, the findings of this research project suggest that the water extract of Cola nitida pod possesses antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties, making it a potential candidate for further development as a natural therapeutic agent.