Immunomodulatory Effects of Dietary Cashew in Obese Rats with Cisplatin-Induced Immunosuppression

Abstract

Background: Immune homeostasis is closely associated with nutritional and metabolic status. Obesity can disrupt this balance by promoting chronic low-grade inflammation and immunometabolic dysregulation, while cisplatin exposure may further impair immune and hematological function through oxidative stress and systemic toxicity. Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) kernels contain essential nutrients and bioactive compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Objective: This study investigated the effects of dietary cashew powder supplementation on hematological, immunological, and oxidative stress-related parameters in obese rats subjected to cisplatin exposure.
Methods: Twenty-four adult male albino rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 6). The negative-control group received a basal diet, whereas the remaining groups were subjected to obesity induction and cisplatin administration. Obese cisplatin-treated rats received either a basal diet alone or a diet supplemented with 4% or 8% cashew powder for 28 days. Hematological indices, serum IgM and IgG, and oxidative stress biomarkers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were evaluated.
Results: Cisplatin-treated obese rats showed reductions in leukocyte, lymphocyte, hemoglobin, erythrocyte, and platelet parameters, accompanied by increased MDA and decreased SOD, CAT, and GPx activities. Serum IgM and IgG concentrations were also altered. Cashew supplementation was associated with improvement in hematological and leukocyte profiles, reduction of MDA, and enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activities. The 8% supplementation level generally produced a greater response than the 4% level.
Conclusion: Dietary cashew powder may contribute to the modulation of oxidative, hematological, and immune-related disturbances associated with obesity and cisplatin exposure. Further mechanistic studies are warranted to clarify its potential nutritional and protective effects