1.1 Introduction
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Hyperlipidemia is defined as a medical condition characterized by abnormally elevated levels of lipids such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the bloodstream (Tiwari & Kumar, 2018). It is one of the most significant risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and stroke, which remain leading causes of death globally (World Health Organization, 2021). The condition often results from genetic factors, poor dietary habits, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle, leading to disruptions in lipid metabolism (Bhattacharya et al., 2016).
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This chapter will address the background information that motivated this study, the challenges that prompted it, its aim, and its objectives as a preface to subsequent sections of the study. Additional factors include the study's significance, scope, limitations, research questions, and the definition of technical terms.
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1.2 Background of Study
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Hyperlipidemia remains one of the most prevalent metabolic disorders globally, posing a significant public health challenge due to its strong association with cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. According to Tiwari and Kumar (2018), hyperlipidemia is characterized by abnormally high levels of lipids in the bloodstream, particularly cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. The World Health Organization (2021) reported that cardiovascular diseases account for approximately 31% of all global deaths, making lipid management a central focus of preventive healthcare strategies.
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Kumar et al. (2020) asserted that despite the availability of pharmacological agents such as statins and fibrates, which effectively lower serum lipid levels, these drugs are often accompanied by side effects, including liver dysfunction, myopathy, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Consequently, there has been growing interest in identifying alternative natural therapies that are safer, more affordable, and culturally acceptable for managing lipid disorders. Bhattacharya et al. (2016) stated that medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds capable of modulating lipid metabolism, thereby offering potential therapeutic benefits for hyperlipidemic conditions.
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Phaseolus vulgaris Linn, commonly referred to as the common bean, has drawn attention as a functional food with significant health benefits. Marathe et al. (2011) affirmed that this legume is a rich source of proteins, dietary fibers, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids, which contribute to its nutritional and medicinal properties. Similarly, Campos-Vega et al. (2013) reported that the antioxidant potential of Phaseolus vulgaris is linked to its polyphenolic content, which helps in scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Pérez-Hernández et al. (2018) contended that these bioactive compounds not only lower serum cholesterol and triglycerides but also enhance the body's defense system against oxidative damage.
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Oxidative stress has been identified as a critical factor in the progression of hyperlipidemia and its related complications. According to Uddin et al. (2019), an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's antioxidant defenses leads to lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA damage. This oxidative damage exacerbates lipid accumulation in arterial walls, thereby increasing the risk of atherosclerosis. Adegoke et al. (2020) reported that antioxidants derived from natural sources play a vital role in mitigating oxidative stress and improving lipid homeostasis. Ajiboye et al. (2017) further asserted that plant-derived antioxidants are safer and more effective than synthetic alternatives due to their multifaceted biological activities and minimal adverse effects.
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Wistar rats have been widely used as animal models in experimental pharmacology and toxicology because of their physiological similarity to humans. Singh et al. (2019) affirmed that these rats provide a reliable model for evaluating the biochemical and physiological effects of natural products on lipid metabolism and oxidative stress. Using Wistar rats in evaluating the antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn provides a scientific basis for understanding the mechanisms through which this plant influences lipid regulation and antioxidant defense.
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According to Bhattacharya et al. (2016), the exploration of natural plant-based therapies aligns with the global shift toward nutraceutical and functional food research. Such approaches emphasize the dual role of certain foods in nutrition and disease prevention. This notion is reinforced by Adegoke et al. (2020), who contended that integrating plant-based antioxidants into regular diets is an effective strategy for reducing the burden of metabolic disorders in populations with limited access to pharmaceutical interventions. This study is set against the backdrop of the increasing prevalence of hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress-related disorders.
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1.3 Statement of Problems
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Investigation revealed that hyperlipidemia is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, which remain the leading cause of mortality globally. It is characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins in the blood, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis and other metabolic complications (Tiwari & Kumar, 2018). Current pharmacological agents such as statins and fibrates are widely used to manage hyperlipidemia; however, they are often associated with side effects including hepatic dysfunction, muscle pain, and gastrointestinal disturbances (Kumar et al., 2020).
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Furthermore, phaseolus vulgaris Linn, commonly known as the common bean, is a leguminous plant widely consumed as a dietary staple in many parts of the world. It is rich in phytochemicals, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and dietary fibers, which have been reported to possess antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties (Marathe et al., 2011). However, while several studies have documented the nutritional value of Phaseolus vulgaris, limited experimental evidence is available on its antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects, particularly in animal models such as Wistar rats. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to evaluate the antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn in Wistar rats.
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1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
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The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn in reducing hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress in Wistar rats. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
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\r\n- To assess the effect of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn on serum lipid profile (cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL) in Wistar rats.
\r\n- To determine the impact of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn on oxidative stress biomarkers, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase.
\r\n- To evaluate the dose-dependent effects of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn on lipid metabolism and antioxidant activity.
\r\n- To compare the efficacy of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn with standard hypolipidemic drugs in experimental models.
\r\n- To provide evidence for the potential use of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn as a functional food or natural therapeutic agent in managing hyperlipidemia.
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1.5 Research Questions
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The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
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\r\n- What is the effect of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn on the serum lipid profile of Wistar rats?
\r\n- How does Phaseolus vulgaris Linn influence oxidative stress biomarkers in Wistar rats?
\r\n- Does the antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant effect of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn vary with dosage?
\r\n- How does the efficacy of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn compare with standard pharmacological treatments for hyperlipidemia?
\r\n- Can Phaseolus vulgaris Linn be considered a viable natural therapeutic option for managing hyperlipidemia?
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1.6 Significance of Study
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It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will provide scientific evidence supporting the use of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn as a natural agent for managing hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress. It will also provide evidence for promoting the use of indigenous and locally available plant-based interventions in public health programs.
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Furthermore, this research will increase awareness about dietary strategies and natural sources of antioxidants and lipid-lowering agents. Also, the study will provide a foundation for further experimental and clinical investigations into the therapeutic potentials of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn.
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Lastly, the research study will contribute to knowledge in pharmacology, nutrition, and preventive medicine, and will encourage the adoption of functional foods in daily diets for disease prevention.
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1.7 Scope of Study
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The scope of the research is focused on evaluating the antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn in Wistar rats within laboratory conditions. The study will be conducted in Lagos State, Nigeria, using a controlled experimental setup that simulates hyperlipidemic conditions.
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The study will also compare the plant’s efficacy with standard hypolipidemic drugs to understand its potential therapeutic applications.
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1.8 Limitations of the Study
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A study of this nature is bound to experience certain problems as such the constraints imposed on the research include:
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\r\n- Time Constraints: A study of this nature needs relatively long time during which information for accurate or at least near accurate inference could be drawn. The period of the study was short, time posed as constraints to the research.
\r\n- Financial Constraints: The research would have extended the survey to other area at the empirical level, but limitation as included cost of transportation to the source of material and the cost of time setting of the already completed work.
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1.9 Definition of Terms
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Hyperlipidemia:
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A metabolic condition characterized by elevated levels of lipids in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides, which is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (Tiwari & Kumar, 2018).
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Antihyperlipidemic:
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Refers to the ability of a substance to reduce or normalize lipid levels in the blood (Bhattacharya et al., 2016).
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Antioxidant:
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A substance that inhibits oxidation and neutralizes free radicals, thereby preventing cellular damage (Uddin et al., 2019).
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Phaseolus vulgaris Linn:
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Commonly known as the common bean, it is a leguminous plant rich in proteins, fibers, and bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols with potential therapeutic effects (Marathe et al., 2011).
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