PRUNUS AFRICANA AND URTICAL DIOICA EXTRACTS REVERSED PROSTATE ENLARGEMENT IN THE FORM OF HYDROGEN PEROXIDE (H2O2), NITRIC OXIDE USING WISTAR RAT

ABSTRACT Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common age-related urological condition characterized by the enlargement of the prostate gland, which often results in lower urinary tract symptoms and reduced quality of life in men. Oxidative and nitrosative stress have been identified as important factors contributing to the development and progression of BPH. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of Prunus africana leaf extract (PALE) and Urtica dioica leaf extract (UDL) in reversing testosterone-induced prostate enlargement through the modulation of oxidative stress markers, including hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), nitric oxide (NO), and protein carbonyl (PCO) levels in male Wistar rats. Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into experimental groups and treated with testosterone to induce prostate enlargement. The animals were subsequently administered PALE, UDL, a combination of both extracts, or flutamide as a reference drug for a period of 28 days. Plant extracts were prepared using ethanol–water extraction and characterized using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) to identify their bioactive constituents. Biochemical analyses were conducted to determine the levels of H₂O₂, NO, and protein carbonyl, while Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to assess biochemical changes in tissues. The results showed that testosterone administration significantly increased the levels of H₂O₂, NO, and protein carbonyl, indicating elevated oxidative stress and inflammation. However, treatment with PALE and UDL significantly reduced these oxidative markers. The combined administration of both extracts produced a stronger protective effect compared to individual treatments, suggesting a synergistic interaction between the phytochemicals present in the extracts. GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds such as stigmasterol, linoleic acid, oleic acid, and terpinen 4 ol, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In conclusion, Prunus africana and Urtica dioica extracts demonstrate significant protective effects against testosterone-induced prostate enlargement by reducing oxidative and nitrosative stress. Their combined use may provide a promising natural therapeutic approach for the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Keywords: Benign prostatic hyperplasia, Prunus africana, Urtica dioica, oxidative stress, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, protein carbonyl.