Modulatory Effect of Hydrilla Verticillata Extract on Lipid Profile, Hepatic Dysfunctioning and Mitigation of Oxidative Stress in Triton X-100 Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats

Abstract

Background: Hydrilla verticillata is an aquatic plant with documented ethnomedicinal relevance. This study investigated the phytochemical composition and assessed the antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, and hepatoprotective activities of the ethanolic extract of Hydrilla verticillata (EEHV) using in vitro and in vivo experimental models.

Methods: Hyperlipidemia was induced in Wistar rats via Triton X-100. Animals received EEHV at 200 and 400 mg/kg, compared with atorvastatin (10 mg/kg). Phytochemical screening, extractive yield determination, and standardized assays assessed total phenolic (TPC), flavonoid (TFC), and terpenoid content. Antioxidant capacity evaluated via DPPH and nitric oxide radical scavenging assay. Biochemical markers, oxidative stress parameters (TBARS, MDA, GSH), and liver histology were analyzed. Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test.

Results: EEHV showed 18.2% yield and contained phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and saponins. TPC, TFC, and terpenoids were quantified as 166.28 ± 0.03 mg GAE/100g, 120.07 ± 0.07 mg QE/100g, and 146.92 mg linalool equivalents/100g, respectively. EEHV exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant effects with IC₅₀ values of 245.99 μg/mL (DPPH) and 233.66 μg/mL (NO). In vivo, EEHV significantly improved lipid profiles, reduced ALT, AST, bilirubin, creatinine, and BUN levels, and restored antioxidant status, especially at 400 mg/kg (***p < 0.001). Histopathology confirmed hepatic tissue recovery comparable to the standard.

Conclusion: EEHV demonstrates significant antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic, and hepatoprotective activities, particularly at 400 mg/kg, indicating potential as a natural therapeutic agent for oxidative and metabolic disorders. This study offers a comprehensive evaluation of EEHV's pharmacological promise.