Assessment of the Potential Anti-Proliferative Effects of Margaritaria Discoidea Extract on a Rat Model of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent condition in men over 50, often developing into malignant tumors. Current treatments, including surgery and pharmacological interventions, have side effects like erectile dysfunction and depression. This study explored the anti-proliferative effect of aqueous extract of M. discoidea stem bark (AESBM) in a rat model of BPH. Twenty male rats were randomized into four groups (n=5): control, untreated BPH, finasteride-treated, and AESBM-treated. GC-MS analysis of AESBM revealed methyl benzoate, methyl palmitate, and methyl stearate as abundant constituents, with molecular docking studies showing strong 5AR2 inhibition. BPH was induced by testosterone propionate injection for 28 days, and AESBM was administered orally for 28 days. BPH induction increased prostate weight, PSA, and testosterone levels, accompanied by increased IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, NO, and caspase 3, and decreased antioxidant activities. These events were associated with glandular and stromal hyperplasia. Treatment with AESBM abrogated these oxido-inflammatory-mediated apoptotic responses, with effects comparable to finasteride. Findings from this study established the efficacy of AESBM as a potential phytotherapeutic agent for BPH management. AESBM's ameliorative effects suggest its potential as a natural therapeutic option for BPH, warranting further investigation. The study's results highlight the importance of exploring natural products for BPH treatment.