Okafor, PN, Anoruo, K, Bonire AO and Maduagwu EN
Keywords: Cassava-cyanide, low-protein, tropical pancreatitis, rats.
Abstract: The contribution of low-protein and cassava-cyanide intake in the aetiology of tropical pancreatitis was investigated in male albino Wistar rats fed for 28 days with cassava diet containing 50mgCN-kg-1DM and 3% protein supplement, using acceptable biochemical methods. Assay for pancreatic amylase activity (indicator for pancreatic dysfunction) in blood of both control and cassava-cyanide fed groups indicated 9.43% and13.57% rise in activity of this enzyme in the latter above the former after 14 and 28 days respectively. Increases activity of some hepatic enzymes in the blood were also measured. Depletion of whole blood glutathione of the test animals by 57.33% and 84.38% after 14 and 28 days respectively above that of control was also observed. There was non-significant increase (p> 0.05) in plasma malonaldehyde (lipid peroxidation status) of the cassava-cyanide fed group when compared to the control. Significant decreases in plasma albumin and elation in blood and urine thiocyanate levels were also measured. The results are discussed from toxicological and mechanism of action points of views.
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