Effect of Carica papaya (Pawpaw) Leaf Extract on Glucosyltransferase (GLT)

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of Carica Papaya leaf extract on glucosyltransferase (GTF).  Method: Fresh leafs of Carica Papaya (pawpaw) was collected, dried at room temperature. Extraction was done using maceration method with ethanol as the solvent. The extract was concentrated using water bath. The crude drug stored for analysis. The inhibitory activity of glucosyltransferase was done using GTF assay using spetrophotometric method at wavelength of 530nm. And percentage inhibition was determined.  Results: Result showed a dosage dependent inhibition of GTF following the administration of leaf extract of carica papaya. IC50 of 0.30mg/ml was determined using the dose-response curve. The extract showed good glucosyltransferase inhibitory activity.  Conclusion: From the result C.papaya leaf extract showed good inhibition of glucosyltransferase and the percentage inhibition increases as concentration of the drug increases. As such we can be recommended for people who are suffering from tooth ache and demineralization of the enamel caused by streptococci mutan presence.