ABSTRACT

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory potential of methanolic extract of Vigna subterranean (bambara nut) on wistar albino rats. Immunomodulation can be specific or non-specific. Due to their actions as a non-specific and non-antigens properties, they do not stimulate the development of memory lymphocytes. Thus the effect of immune modulator agents towards specific immune system will be reduced after a short of period of time. Potentiation of the immune response is needed for certain cases such as for immunocompromised patients, whereas suppression of the immune response is desired for others as in organ transplant, allergic and inflammatory diseased patients. A total of twelve (12) wistar albino rats were used for the study and grouped into three (3), with each group having four (4) rats each. The normal control was administered with commercial feed and water while the positive control was administered with pyrogallol solution with dosage volume of 0.86m1 alongside with animal feed and water in order to suppress the immune system. The test group received the methanol extract of the plant dosage of 400mg/kg body weight and also pyrogallol solution at dosage volume of 0.90m1 with normal feed and water. These administration lasted for 28days after which blood was drawn through ocular puncture and serum collected for use for the assay. The immunomodulatory activity was evaluated on haematological indices (packed cell volume, haemoglobin and total white blood cell count), Extimation of Catalase, Extimation of Glutathione peroxidase, Non-enzymatic antioxidants, Estimation of extent of lipid peroxidation. This study indicates that the extract of Vigna subterrànean(bambara nut) has immunostimulatory effect on the immune system.