Expression of Caspase-1 and CYP11A1 Genes in Benzene-induced Hematotoxicity Bearing Wistar Rats Treated with a Bi-herbal Extract of Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus

Background: Caspase-1 and CYP11A1 genes play crucial roles in inflammation and steroid hormone biosynthesis, both of which might be implicated in the toxic effects of benzene on the blood. Picralima nitida and Cymbopogon citratus , with their known medicinal qualities, contain bioactive compounds that may influence cellular pathways, decrease oxidative stress, and improve blood cell production. Objectives: This study investigated the effects of a combined aqueous leaf extract of these two plants on caspase-1 and CYP11A1 gene expression in benzene-induced blood toxicity in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Sixty male rats were divided into six groups: control, benzene exposure, cyclophosphamide treatment, and three groups receiving benzene with different doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of the combined plant extract. Caspase-1 and CYP11A1 mRNA levels were measured using polymerase chain reaction, and the data were analyzed with GraphPad Prism. Results: Groups treated with benzene, cyclophosphamide, and the 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg extract doses had significantly higher caspase-1 expression compared to the control group ( P < 0.05). Similarly, groups exposed to benzene, cyclophosphamide, and the 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg extract doses showed significantly higher CYP11A1 expression compared to the control ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: The mRNA expression of both caspase-1 and CYP11A1 was significantly altered by benzene, cyclophosphamide, and the plant extract.