1,2-DIMETHYLHYDRAZINE-INDUCED COLON NEOPLASIA: HISTOPATHOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL ASSESSMENTS FOLLOWING ADMINISTRATION OF BRASSICA JUNCEA EXTRACT

Journal: Acta Chemica Malaysia (ACMY)
Author: Oduma-Sandy Cordelia, Eze Gerald Ikechi, Akinbo Frederick, Imafidon Endurance Osakiduwa, Olukayode Seun Bidemi, Innih
Silvanus Olu
ISSN: 2576-6732
e-ISSN: 2576-6724

This is an open access journal distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.26480/acmy.02.2025.100.103

Neoplasia is characterized by the uncontrolled and excessive growth of abnormal tissue, resulting in the formation of a neoplasm. Although often used interchangeably, the terms “neoplasm” and “tumor” have distinct meanings (Ho et al., 2017). A tumor refers specifically to a swelling or lump, typically associated with inflammation. In contrast, a neoplasm encompasses any abnormal new growth, lesion, or ulcer. Both tumors and neoplasms involve abnormal cell growth, which can be either malignant or benign. Cancer, a malignant neoplasm, poses a significant threat worldwide (Ma et al., 2011). Each year, tens of millions of new cancer cases are diagnosed worldwide, with over half resulting in mortality. Existing cancer therapies have limited effective-ness, as evidenced by cancer statistics and are often accompanied by severe side effects (Kazem-ipoor et al, 2012). Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally (Gellad and Provenzale, 2010). Plant-based remedies have been reported to be free from undesirable side effects (Philomena, 2011). Moreover, ap-proximately 8% of hospital admissions worldwide are attributed to adverse effects of synthetic drugs highlighting the need for safer treatment alternatives. Research suggests that certain phyto-chemicals, such as glucosinolates found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and Brassica juncea, may have cancer-preventive properties. B. juncea, derived from mustard plants, are a rich source of these phytochemicals (Philomena, 2011) B. juncea are typically 1-2 millimeters in diameter and range in color from yellowish-white to black (Nasri, 2013). They are a common spice in regional cuisine and come in three main varieties: black mustard (Brassica nigra), brown Indian mustard (B. juncea), and white/yellow mustard (B. hirta/Sinapis alba). When ground and mixed with liquids, the seeds produce the familiar yellow condiment known as prepared mustard. Mustard has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and its potential anticancer properties are currently being researched. Both table mustard and mustard greens have shown promise as cancer inhibitors. B. juncea contain a range of nutritionally rele-vant compounds, including: 20 different glucosinolates, Vitamins A, B6, and C dietary folate, Omega-3 fatty acids, minerals like magnesium, potassium, selenium, manganese, phosphorus, and copper (Haq, 2004). B. juncea, in particular, has been extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine for its potential to heal the bronchial system, eliminate intestinal parasites, ease sprains and other pains. Physicians in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations also used B. juncea for various health purposes. The plant is said to help alleviate conditions like flatulence, colds, catarrh, chest and bladder ailments. Additionally, it is used in footbaths to combat fatigue and promote circulation (Wen et al., 2012).