Effects of Aqueous Extract of Newbouldia laevis Leaves on the Pancreas of Lead Acetate-Induced Adult Wistar Rats

Lead is a heavy metal widely known for its toxic effects on various organs, including the pancreas. The search for plant-derived remedies has led to the evaluation of Newbouldia laevis, a medicinal plant traditionally used in the management of several ailments. This study investigated the effects of aqueous extracts of Newbouldia laevis on the pancreas of lead acetate-induced adult Wistar rats. Adult of 25 Wistar rats weighing (150-200g) were randomly assigned into five groups: Group A served as the normal control, Group B received lead acetate only, Group C received lead acetate and Vitamin C, while Groups D and E received lead acetate with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of Newbouldia laevis extract, respectively. Lead acetate was administered to induce pancreatic toxicity, while vitamin C and plant extracts were given orally throughout the experimental period. After the 28 days of treatment with the extract, pancreatic tissues were harvested, processed using routine histological techniques, and examined under light microscopy following hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results showed that the control group exhibited normal pancreatic architecture with intact islets of Langerhans and pancreatic acini, while the lead acetate group showed severe degeneration and necrosis. The Vitamin C-treated group showed moderate regeneration with mild necrotic changes. Rats treated with 200 mg/kg of Newbouldia laevis showed mild regeneration with moderate necrosis, whereas those treated with 400 mg/kg showed marked improvement with active acini and distinct islets of Langerhans. In conclusion, Newbouldia laevis demonstrated a dose-dependent protective effect against lead-induced pancreatic damage.