Oxidative and Haemolytic Properties of Aqueous Extract of Pennisetum purpureum Shoots as Remedy to Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract

Reported anti-sickling activity of Pennisetum purpureum shoots has prompted interest in their effects on haemoglobin oxidation and erythrocyte stability. This study assessed the oxidative and haemolytic effects of an aqueous extract of P. purpureum shoots. UV–visible spectroscopy was performed over 400–700 nm to monitor oxyhaemoglobin absorbance at 540 and 576 nm and methaemoglobin formation at 630 nm. Samples were examined in the absence of extract and at extract concentrations of 250, 500, and 1,000 μg/mL, with measurements obtained at 0, 30, 60, and 90 minutes and 24 hours. Erythrocyte lysis was assessed spectrophotometrically across a saline concentration gradient. In the presence of the extract, the oxyhaemoglobin absorbance ratio (A576/A540) decreased from 1.04 to 0.91, while absorbance at 630 nm increased from 0.05 to 0.42, indicating methaemoglobin formation. Haemoglobin oxidation increased with extract concentration and incubation time. The haemolysis assay also indicated an erythrocyte-stabilising effect. These findings demonstrate concentration- and time-dependent haemoglobin oxidation alongside erythrocyte-stabilising activity under the tested conditions. The study provides preliminary laboratory evidence to guide further investigation of the extract’s potential relevance to sickle cell disease management.