Protective Effect of Umbelliferone in Folic Acid-induced Hematological Toxicity in Male C57BL/6

Aims: Folic acid, also referred to as vitamin B9, functions as a catalyst in mono-carbon metabolism, playing a pivotal position in supporting cellular growth and proliferation. Although beneficial, excessive amounts of folic acid can negatively impact hematological health. Herbal remedies are acquiring accelerated popularity in both developed and developing countries, primarily because they are affordable and have fewer complications. Umbelliferone (UMB), known by the name of 7-hydroxycoumarin, is a pharmacologically active compound derived from coumarin. This yellowish-white, crystalline substance found in various plants, exhibiting a Wide array of potency. Using in vivo experimental models, the study sought to explore the beneficial effects of UMB on haematotoxicity caused by folic acid, with a particular emphasis on examining important haematological parameters.

Frame Work of the Study: Twenty-four adult C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to four groups. Group 1 served as the placebo control. Group 2 was administered folic acid at a dose of 250mg/kg through intra peritoneum on first day to induce toxicity. Group 3 received only UMB at a dose of 60mg/kg body weight through oral route for 14 days. Group 4 was given folic acid on first day and concurrently treated with UMB for 14 days. After 14-day period, hemotological parameres including Total Erythrocyte Count (TEC), Total Leukocyte Count (TLC), Haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, Packed Cell Volume/Haematocrit (PCV/Hct), and Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), were meticulously evaluated.

Results: Analysis of haematological parameters revealed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the mean values of TEC, Hb, PCV, MCV, and lymphocytes, along with a marked increase in TLC and neutrophils in group 2 mice compared to other groups. No significant (p<0.05) differences were found between groups 1 and 3. Group 4 showed a mild to moderate improvement in all parameters compared to group 3.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that unambiguously revealed that UMB provides safeguarding counter to haematological toxicity induced by folic acid suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent.