Modulation of immunological responses by aqueous extract of Datura stramonium L. seeds on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in Wistar rats

Background Datura stramonium L. (Solanaceae) is used traditionally in west Africa to treat asthma, epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis, filariasis microbial infections and conjunctivitis. This study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of aqueous seed extract of D. stramonium L. (ASEDS) on Wistar rats. Methods Thirty Wistar albino rats (180-200 g) were randomized into 6 groups (n = 5). Group 1 received distilled water only. Rats in groups 2-6 were pretreated with 10 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) Cyclophosphamide orally for 27-days to induce immunosuppression. Thereafter, they received treatment orally for 28 days as follows: Group 2 (distilled water), group 3 (5 mg/kg b.w. Levamisole), groups 4-6 (60, 90 and 120 mg/kg b.w. ASEDS, respectively). HPLC was used to determine major compounds in ASEDS. The effects of ASEDS on immune cells, immunoglobulins A, G and M levels, lipoproteins, and antioxidant status of rats were evaluated. Results ASEDS indicated high content of Acutumine, Quinine, Catechin, Chlorogenic acid, Gallic acid, Quercetin, Vanillic acid, Luteolin, Formosanin C, Saponin, Cyanidin, Tannic acid, 3-Carene, Limonene and alpha-terpineol. Cyclophosphamide triggered significant (p < 0.05) reduction in total leucocyte count and differentials, IgA, IgG, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, vitamins A, C and E levels of untreated rats. Administration of ASEDS led to significant (p < 0.05) improvement in immune cell counts, immunoglobulin synthesis, high-density lipoprotein concentration, and antioxidant status of rats in the treated groups. Conclusions The results obtained from the study showed the immunomodulatory activity of ASEDS, thereby indicating its potential in immunostimulatory drug discovery.