ASSESSMENT OF SAPONIN RICH FRACTION FROM BALANITES AEGYPTIACA (L.) FRUITS AS ANTI SCHISTOMIASIS, ANTI-OXIDANT, ANTIMUTAGENIC AGENTS AND IN VITRO PRODUCTION OF SAPONINS FOR DRUG MANUFACTURE

Abstract

Saponin rich fraction of Balanites fruits (SRF) was administered orally at a dose of 250 mg/kg to schistosoma infected mice. Treatment with SRF showed amelioration signs in all biomarkers that confirmed by significant reduction in oogram, ova count and worm burden. Histopathological examination showed extensive reduction in granuloma sizes after 6 weeks treatment. Our results showed time dependant inhibition in the DNA damage induced in infected mice after treatment. Saponins were also successfully synthesized by callus cultures using Murashige and Skoog media. NMR analysis illustrated the presence of 4 major saponins of furostanol type from both fruits of natural plant and calli. Thus, SRF of B.aegyptiaca fruits possesses antischistomiasis activity. Antioxidant and antimutagenic activities could be considered as possible mechanisms of action. Additionally, Balanites aegyptiaca saponins could be produced in continuous manner using in vitro cultures as future vision for drug production to overcome scarce of active metabolites and endangered plant