Abstract: In the Central African Republic (CAR), cassava leaves infected with the African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV) are one of the most consumed vegetables. Several studies have been carried out on cassava leaves but none of these studies have focused on the impact of consuming cassava leaves infected with CMV on the growth and organs of a mammal. The objective of this study is to verify the effects of feeding cassava leaves on the growth of mice. 35 mice were selected for the experiment. The presence of ACMV in cassava leaves was determined by PCR test. During the first month mice were feed with 25% cassava leaves and 75% corn cake. At the second month the diet consisted of an equal proportion of cassava leaves and corn cake. Finally at the third month 75% of cassava leaves and 25% of corn cake were used to formulate the diet of mice. Regular weight gain was performed to evaluate the growth of the mice. The mortality rate of the mice was determined during the three months of observation. Reference enzymes such as Aspartate Amino Transferase (ASAT) and Alanine Amino Transferase (ALAT) were assayed and creatinine content of mice was determined to evaluate liver and kidney functions. The results showed that cassava leaves collected with different levels of ACMV symptoms (severity symptom index ranging from 1 to 5) were positive for the presence of begomoviruses. There was a weight gain in mice fed with the diet consisting of 25% of cassava leaves. Inclusion of 50% cassava leaves did not result in a weight gain of the animals greater than 10%. The inclusion of 75% cassava leaves resulted in a decrease in animal weight. ASAT/ALAT enzymes and creatinine levels were normal. Consumption of cassava leaves infected with mosaic virus is not a health risk. Cassava leaves infected with mosaic virus can be used for food and feed.Abstract: In the Central African Republic (CAR), cassava leaves infected with the African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV) are one of the most consumed vegetables. Several studies have been carried out on cassava leaves but none of these studies have focused on the impact of consuming cassava leaves infected with CMV on the growth and organs of a mammal. The obje...Show More
