The Biological Effect of Chenopodium quinoa willd. (quinoa) Seeds with Insight into Its Physiological Impact on The Liver

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Molecular Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt.

2 Zoology Department Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo 11795, Egypt.

3 Biochemistry Sector, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University , Cairo, Egypt; SSR.

Abstract

The Chenopodiaceae family includes the plant species known as quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Wild.) which has its origins in the South American Andes. Quinoa seeds typically include significant levels of protein, fat, and ash and have a tiny grain size (1.8–2.2 mm). It is becoming more and more well-liked due to its remarkable capacity to adapt to many soil types and climates. Quinoa seeds have several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-carcinogenic qualities. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that quinoa seeds can help lower obesity. Because it is gluten-free, it is a great substitute for people who have wheat allergies or celiac disease. Quinoa is also rich in minerals, such as calcium and iron, and fiber. Quinoa contains a variety of secondary metabolites, including asterpenoids, flavonoids, steroids, phenolic acids and nitrogen-containing compounds. One of the main areas of focus in nutritional research at the moment is the identification and characterization of the bioactive chemicals found in quinoa. In this work, we want to identify the biological effect of quinoa seeds with insight into its physiological impact on the liver. Fourteen adult male albino rats (160-170 g body weight) were purchased from VACSERA (Cairo, Egypt), divided to two groups control and black quinoa seeds extract. The administration of black quinoa seeds extract (BQS) (2 g/kg b.wt) for 8 weeks led to non-significant changes in the liver function parameters (ALT, AST, bilirubin) as compared to the control group. This indicating that the black quinoa seeds extractat 2 g/kg b.wt. is safe and has no toxic effect on liver. In summary, the current study shown that the extract from black quinoa seeds is safe to be consumed as a part of our daily routine because it has no liver toxicity.

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