Journal of Biochemistry International

Heavy metal toxicity, particularly cadmium toxicity, remains a major public health concern because of its ability to induce oxidative stress, disrupt lipid metabolism, and cause hepatic damage. This study evaluated the protective effects of a Pterocarpus santalinoides leaf diet against cadmium-induced biochemical alterations in Wistar rats. Thirty-six Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups of six rats each. Groups 1, 2, and 3 were exposed to cadmium and fed P. santalinoides leaf diets containing 10% (Ps1), 20% (Ps2), and 40% (Ps3), respectively. Group 4 served as the negative control and received cadmium without treatment, whereas Group 5 served as the normal control and received feed and water only. Group 6 was designated as the standard control (vitamin E). At the end of the experimental period, blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis. Lipid profile parameters, including HDL-c, LDL-c, VLDL-c, and triacylglycerol, were determined, while liver function markers, including AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT, were analysed using standard laboratory procedures. Cadmium exposure altered lipid profile indices and liver enzyme activities. The negative control showed elevated LDL-c, VLDL-c, and triacylglycerol levels, together with increased AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT activities, indicating lipid abnormalities and hepatic injury. Treatment with a P. santalinoides leaf diet was associated with reductions in LDL-c, VLDL-c, triacylglycerol, AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT in the treated groups, alongside changes in HDL-c levels. Among the treated groups, Ps2 showed the lowest VLDL-c, triacylglycerol, and LDL-c values, whereas Ps3 showed the lowest AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT activities. These findings indicate that a P. santalinoides leaf diet may protect against cadmium-induced lipid abnormalities and hepatic damage. The plant may therefore have potential as a natural protective dietary intervention against cadmium-related toxicity and associated biochemical disorders.