An In-vitro Study of the Effect of Hydroethanol Extract of Annona senegalensis Leaves on Bitis rhinoceros (Viperidae) Venom Induced Coagulopathy

Abstract

Bites of Bitis Rhinoceros (Viperidae) usually cause a hemorrhagic syndrome in the victims. This is a medical emergency. Antivenom immunotherapy remains effective. However, its availability and cost still limiting its use in Africa in general and in Côte d'Ivoire particularly.  The roots of a plant of the Annonaceae family (Annona senegalensis) are used in Côte d'Ivoire to treat cases of envenomations by Viperidae. The objective of this work is to study the modulation of the effect of Bitis rhinoceros venom on coagulation parameters by the hydroethanol extract of Annona senegalensis leaves. The phytochemical study of the plant was carried out by monitoring effect of the venom on three blood coagulation parameters (PT, APTT, Fibrinogen) from healthy individuals in the presence and absence of the hydro-ethanolic extract. Phytochemistry revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, and polyphenolic compounds including flavonoids in this plant. The study of the effect of the venom showed that at the concentration of 10-2 mg/mL the venom of Bitis rhinoceros modifies some coagulation parameters by the decrease of half of the prothrombin rate, the increase of the coagulation time. It has no effect on the fibrinogen level. The effect of this venom is inhibited by 1 mg/mL of the hydroethanol extract. The leaves of Annona senegalensis contain molecules that could neutralize the action of the venom in the coagulation disorder.