Gastroprotective Effects of Hexanic Extract of the Leaves of Spondias purpurea and Its Underlying Mechanism of Action

Spondias purpurea is used in ethnopharmacology as an antidiarrheal, antispasmodic, diuretic, antianemic, antipyretic, and analgesic. Studies carried out by our research group attested to the preliminary antioxidant and gastroprotective activities of this species; however, its mechanism of action remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the mechanisms of action underlying the healing activity of hexanic extract of S. purpurea leaves (SpHE). In this study, 144 Wistar rats were used, 72 males and 72 females. For this, antisecretory capacity by pylorus ligation, effects of nitric oxide and sulfhydryl (SH) groups, and the ability to stimulate mucus production were evaluated. Healing activity was evaluated in vitro using a scratch test and in vivo using the acetic acid‐induced rat ulcer model. Values were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Statistical significance between groups was determined using one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's test, with p < 0.05 indicating significance. SpHE (25 mg/kg) decreased acid secretion in the gastric contents and increased mucus production in rats; this effect was SH‐dependent but nitric oxide‐independent. Cell migration assays demonstrated an increase in the rate of endothelial cell confluence. Ulcer healing and marked cell proliferative activities were observed in the rat ulcer model using histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses with Ki‐67 and BrdU. These data indicate that S. purpurea has antiulcerogenic properties, possibly related to antisecretory, cytoprotective, and healing pathways.