Haematological and Biochemical Assessment of Composite Wood Extracts in Albino Rat (Male Wistar Strain)

Abstract

The study was carried out to evaluate the haematological and biochemical potential indices of exposure to composite woodshavings with great attention to artisans and consumers of shell and fin fishes consequent on bioaccumulation.   Woodshavings/sawdusts of four wood species namely: N. diderrichii, Picea sp., Quercus and A. boonei were used for the experiment while 55 albino rats with weights between 160g – 180g as experimental animals.  Methanol extraction for woodshavings extract was done and graded in three concentration of 50mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 500mg/kg per body weight.  Oral administration of the extract was adopted.  Blood samples were collected after 28days of exposure.  Biochemical study revealed decrease in values of AST, ALP and ALT (P < 0.05).  However, creatinine and urea levels in the treated group increased when compared to the control group.  In like manner, combined increase in total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein was recorded.  The haematological parameters as studied showed increased haematoglobin and haemocrit ratio concentration.  Based on the results obtained from the study, it is crystal clear, that, deliberate or accidental exposure to these wood shavings/sawdusts result in reduction in kidney efficiency, impairment in the biliary system and compromised blood flow to the tissue.

Keywords: Biochemical, Haematological, Woodshavings, Assessment.