Evaluation of Immunomodulatory Activity and Subacute Toxicity of a Novel Non-Cyanide Dried Cassava Mash (DCM)

Cassava is a staple food with significant nutritional value, but its cyanogenic glycosides pose health risks. This study assesses the novel Non-Cyanide Dried Cassava Mash (DCM) for its immunomodulatory activity and safety. The immunomodulatory effects were evaluated in three experiments using mice, with DCM administered either in drinking water for 8 to 30 days or by intraperitoneal diet for 5 days. Key immunological parameters measured included spleen and thymus mass, cellularity, and antibody-producing cell (APC) counts. A 28-day subacute oral toxicity study in Swiss Albino rats monitored body weight and hematological, hepatic, and renal markers. Oral administration of freshly prepared DCM for 8 days significantly increased spleen cellularity and showed a trend toward higher APC counts. Intraperitoneal administration confirmed a significant immunostimulant effect. No adverse effects were observed. The 28-day toxicity study showed no mortality or significant changes in body weight, organ function, or hematological indices. All parameters remained within normal physiological ranges. DCM demonstrates mild immunostimulatory activity in murine models and is non-toxic following subacute oral administration in rats. These results support the safety and potential of DCM as a functional food ingredient with immunomodulatory benefits.