Water and methanolic extracts of Salvia officinalis protect HepG2 cells from t-BHP induced oxidative damage

Mitigation of cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity by Salvia officinalis: Attenuation of oxidative damage and inflammation in rats

Salvia officinalis L., commonly known as sage and belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is a medicinal herb indigenous to the Mediterranean region. It is celebrated for its diverse pharmacological properties and traditional uses in folk medicine, particularly in addressing hepatotoxicity. Cisplatin (Cis), a potent chemotherapeutic agent widely employed in cancer treatment, is recognized for its efficacy but often accompanied by adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity. The aim of this study was to assess whether an ethanolic S. officinalis extract (ESOE) could provide protection against Cis-induced hepatotoxicity in an experimental rat model. The ESOE was prepared using standard extraction techniques, and its chemical constituents were elucidated through UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, revealing the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids, which are associated with various therapeutic effects, including hepatoprotection. Adult male albino rats were allocated into four groups: control, ESOE (250 mg/kg), Cis (7.5 mg/kg), and ESOE (250 mg/kg) + Cis (7.5 mg/kg). The treatment duration lasted 21 days, with Cis administration on the 22nd day. Twenty-four hours post-Cis administration, blood and liver samples were collected for analysis. Cis-induced hepatotoxicity was evidenced by alterations in hematological parameters, including erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte, and lymphocyte counts, alongside elevated serum levels of liver enzymes (ALT, LDH, AST, ALP, and GGT), indicative of liver damage. Furthermore, Cis exposure resulted in increased hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and Nitric oxide (NO) levels, oxidative stress markers, coupled with decreased levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), a non-enzymatic antioxidant, and histopathological changes in liver tissue, characterized by necrosis and inflammation. Additionally, Cis treatment led to elevated levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG), TNF-α, and IL-6, indicating oxidative stress and inflammation. Remarkably, pretreatment with ESOE ameliorated these Cis-induced hepatotoxic effects, as evidenced by improved hematological parameters, reduced liver enzyme activities, alleviated oxidative stress, and ameliorated histopathological alterations. The observed hepatoprotective effects of ESOE against Cis-induced liver injury may be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent in mitigating chemotherapy-associated hepatotoxicity.

Antioxidant activity of chia flour as a food supplement in a cellular model: Repercussions of processing and in vitro digestion

Food processing and digestion can alter bioactive compound composition of food, affecting their potential biological activity. In this study, we evaluated the direct and protective antioxidant effects of polyphenols extracted from defatted chia flour (DCF) (salviaflaside, rosmarinic and fertaric acid as major compounds), sweet cookies supplemented with DCF (CFC) (same major compounds), and their digested fractions (rosmarinic acid, salviaflaside, fertaric and salvianolic E/B/L acid as major compounds) in HepG2 cells in basal and in oxidative stress conditions. DCF showed protective antioxidant effects by decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protein oxidation products (POP) while increasing reduced glutathione (GSH). Additionally, CFC revealed similar protective effects and even showed enhanced modulation of the antioxidant system due to the activation of antioxidant enzymes. However, the digested fractions only decreased ROS, indicating continued antioxidant effects. This study underscores the importance of evaluating manufacturing and digestion effects to confirm a food's antioxidant properties.

Comprehensive Insights into Biological Roles of Rosmarinic Acid: Implications in Diabetes, Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Phytochemicals are abundantly occurring natural compounds extracted from plant sources. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is an abundant phytochemical of Lamiaceae species with various therapeutic implications for human health. In recent years, natural compounds have gained significant attention as adjuvant and complementary therapies to existing medications for various diseases. RA has gained popularity due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and its roles in various life-threatening conditions, such as cancer, neurodegeneration, diabetes, etc. The present review aims to offer a comprehensive insight into the multifaceted therapeutic properties of RA, including its potential as an anticancer agent, neuroprotective effects, and antidiabetic potential. Based on the available evidences, RA could be considered a potential dietary component for treating various diseases, including cancer, diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders.

Fortification of Fermented Camel Milk with Salvia officinalis L. or Mentha piperita Leaves Powder and Its Biological Effects on Diabetic Rats

The incorporation of fermented camel milk with natural additives possesses numerous benefits for the treatment of various pathological and metabolic conditions. The present study investigated the impact of fortification of fermented camel milk with sage or mint leaves powder (1 and 1.5%, respectively) on glucose and insulin levels, lipid profile, and liver and kidney functions in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The gross chemical composition of sage and peppermint leaves powder was studied. The chemical composition of sage and mint extracts was performed using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) of sage and mint extracts. Furthermore, a total of forty-two adult normal male albino rats were included in this study, whereas one group was kept as the healthy control group (n = 6 rats) and diabetes was induced in the remaining animals (n = 36 rats) using alloxan injection (150 mg/kg of body weight). Among diabetic rats groups, a control group (n = 6 rats) was kept as the diabetic control group whereas the other 5 groups (6 rats per group) of diabetic rats were fed fermented camel milk (FCM) or fermented camel milk fortified with 1 and 1.5% of sage or mint leaves powder. Interestingly, the oral administration of fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder, at both concentrations, caused a significant decrease in blood glucose level and lipid profile, and an increase in insulin level compared to the diabetic control and FCM groups. Among others, the best results were observed in the group of animals that received fermented camel milk fortified with 1.5% sage powder. In addition, the results revealed that the fermented camel milk fortified with sage or mint leaves powder improved the liver and kidney functions of diabetic rats. Our study concluded that the use of sage and mint leaves powder (at a ratio of 1.5%) with fermented camel milk produces functional food products with anti-diabetic activity.

Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activity of Portuguese Craft Beers and Raw Materials

There is an increase in the popularity of craft beer, which is produced by small, independent, and traditional breweries. Since craft beer popularity is rising in Portugal this research focused on assessing physicochemical parameters, total phenolic content (TPC) and the antioxidant capacity of Portuguese craft beers and raw materials used in beer production. In this experimental study, 19 beer samples were analyzed. Parameters such as pH, Total Acidity, Reducing Sugar Content and TPC were evaluated. For the determination of antioxidant activity, DPPH scavenging activity and metal chelating activity (MCA) were analyzed in all samples. Craft beers demonstrated a high phenolic content (ranging from 343.78 mg GAE/L to 2172.49 mg GAE/L), significantly different from industrial beers. Craft beers demonstrated a higher inhibition of DPPH radicals and higher MCA than the raw materials. DPPH inhibition ranged from 36.5% to 96.0% for malt and 64.7% to 79.6% in hops samples. MCA also varied between the different samples, with results of 12.0% to 24.8% in malt samples and 3.8% to 23.5% in hops. Raw materials can potentially influence the antioxidant activity of the resulting beer. Positive correlations between TPC and physicochemical properties can be useful to help consumers choose beers with added value for health.

In Vitro Inhibitory Effect of Some Secondary Metabolites Extract from Ocimum basilicum and Salvia officinalis Against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp albedinis of Phoenix dactylifera. L

Fusarium of date palm is a vascular fusariosis caused by a telluric fungus Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. albedinis (F.O.A) which affects the best date varieties in Algeria. Several medicinal plants are adapted with the climatic complexity of the Saharan region, among these plants in the south-west of Algeria Salvia officinalis and Ocimum basilicum. The aim of this work is to study the antifungal effect of flavonoid extracts from Salvia officinalis and Ocimum basilicum leaves by the technique described by Bouchelta et al. (2005), as well the antifungal effect of the aqueous extract of these plants against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. albedinis isolated from the grove of Igli. The evaluation of the antifungal activity revealed a slight mycelial growth anti-proportional to the concentration of flavonoid extract added to the culture medium with an inhibition index of 73.04% at the concentration 3.17 μg/ml and 57.42% at the concentration 1.13 µg/ml for flavonoids extract of Ocimum basilicum and Salvia officinalis, respectively. In addition, the aqueous extract revealed an inhibition index of 35.15% at the concentration of 0.33 mg/ml and 10.54% at the concentration of 3.92 mg/ml for Salvia officinalis and Ocimum basilicum, respectively.

Estrogenic activity of Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) aerial parts and its isolated ferulic acid in immature ovariectomized female rats

ETNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Common sage (Salvia officinalis L., Lamiaceae), a medicinal plant of Mediterranean origin, has been traditionally applied in cases of excessive sweating, and in menopausal complaints, including hot flushes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to study the possible estrogenic effect of the aerial parts of S. officinalis ethanolic extract in immature ovariectomized female rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ethanolic extract was subjected to qualitative and quantitative HPLC analysis and phytochemical isolation. The estrogenic activity of S. officinalis ethanolic extract at oral doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg b.wt. and its isolated ferulic acid at a dose of 50 mg/kg b.wt. for a week, was assessed on ovariectomized immature Wistar rats. The experiment was confirmed by luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) serum levels determination, a histopathological examination and a histomorphometrical study.

RESULTS

HPLC/PDA analysis revealed fourteen phenolic compounds the major constituents were methyl rosmarinate (24.86 mg/100 g) and ferulic acid (6.06 mg/100 g) together with five flavonoids where the major constituents were rutin, naringenin and quercetin. Two compounds were isolated from the polar fraction and identified as methyl rosmarinate (1) and ferulic acid (2). Oral administration of sage ethanolic extract and ferulic acid revealed a significant increase in the uterine weight compared to ovariectomized control rats. Moreover, S. officinalis and ferulic acid showed different phases of estrus cycle denoting estrogenic activity, and significantly decreased the serum levels of FSH and LH.

CONCLUSION

From these results it could be concluded that S. officinalis ethanolic extract and its content of ferulic acid could be useful as a safe natural source for estrogenic activity, supporting its traditional use to improve postmenopausal symptoms.

Quercetin-biapigenin nanoparticles are effective to penetrate the blood-brain barrier

Search for efficient therapeutic agents for central nervous system (CNS) disorders has been extensive. Nevertheless, blood-brain barrier (BBB) is an obstacle that prevents the majority of compounds to act in these diseases. It is, thus, of extreme relevance the BBB overcome, in order to deliver a drugs therapeutically active concentration to the action site, with the least losses and interaction with other organs, tissues, or cells. The present study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of quercetin-biapigenin encapsulated into poly(Ɛ-polycaprolactone) (PCL) nanoparticles against t-BOOH-induced oxidative stress in several brain cell lines, as well as evaluate the permeability of those active molecules through an in vitro BBB model. The three cell lines under study (BV-2, hcmec/D3, and U87) presented different reactions to t-BOOH. In general, quercetin-biapigenin PCL-loaded nanoparticles were able to minimize compound toxicity they convey, regardless the cell line. Quercetin-biapigenin PCL-loaded nanoparticles (Papp of approximately 80 × 10-6 cm/s) revealed to be more permeable than free compounds (Papp of approximately 50 × 10-6 cm/s). As of our knowledge, this is the first report of quercetin-biapigenin PCL-loaded nanoparticle activity in brain cells. It is also the first determining its permeability through BBB, as an effective nanocarrier for brain delivery.

In silico targeting SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and main protease by biochemical compounds

Since there is no general agreement on drug treatment of SARS-CoV-2, the search for a new drug capable of treating COVID-19 is of utmost priority. This study aims to dereplicate the chemical compounds of the methanol extract of Salvia officinalis and Artemisia dracunculus, and assay the inhibitory effect of these compounds as well as the previously dereplicated components of Zingiber officinale against SARS-CoV-2 in an in-silico study. A molecular networking (MN) technique was applied to find the chemical constituents of the extracts. Docking analysis was also used to find the binding affinity of dereplicated components from S. officinalis, A. dracunculus, and Z. officinale to COV-2-SP and M^pro. 57 compounds were dereplicated from the MeOH extracts of S. officinalis and A. dracunculus which include the class of polyphenols, flavonoids, coumarins, phenylpropanoids, anthocyanins, and dihydrochalcones. Molecular docking analysis indicated a high affinity of about 27 compounds from three mentioned plants against studied targets. kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside, neodiosmin, and querciturone with docking score values of -10.575, -10.208, and - 9.904 Kcal/mol and k_i values of 0.016606, 0.030921, and 0.051749, respectively were found to have the highest affinities against COV-2-SP. 2-phenylethyl beta-primeveroside, curcumin PE, and kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside also indicated the highest affinity against M^pro with docking scores of -10.34, -10.126 and - 9.705 and k_i values of 0.024726, 0.035529, and 0.072494, respectively. MN can be successfully used for the dereplication of metabolites from plant extracts. In addition, the in-silico binding energies introduced several inhibitors from Z. officinale, S. officinalis, and A. dracunculus for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 disease.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11756-021-00881-z.

Assessment of Protective Effects of Methanolic Extract of Salvia verbenaca Roots Against Oxidative Damage Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide

Objectives

Salvia verbenaca is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used in Algeria for the treatment of wounds and emptied abscesses. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of methanolic extract of S. verbenaca roots and explore its ability to bestow protection against oxidative damage induced by H₂O₂ (200 μM).

Materials and Methods

The cytotoxic effects and protective properties of S. verbenaca on human monocytic leukemia cells (THP-1) was studied using thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay. The protective effects of the extract against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage was evaluated using single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay and 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescien diacetate (H2DCFDA) assay.

Results

S. verbenaca extract was found to be non-cytotoxic at concentrations <500 μg/mL. However, the use of 500 and 1000 μg/mL of the extract decreasedcell viability. H2DCFDA assay provided evidence for anti-oxidative properties of S. verbenaca. Addition of S. verbenaca (1 and 10 μg/mL) resulted in significant reductionin H₂O₂-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Further, comet assay showed that addition of the extract resulted in a significant reductionin the length and % DNA content of comet tail. Additionally,nuclei in the cells also appeared to be devoid ofdegradation.

Conclusion

The use of S. verbenaca root extract conferred protection against H₂O₂-induced ROS production and DNA breakage in vitro.

Safety and biological activity evaluation of Uncaria rhynchophylla ethanolic extract

Uncaria rhynchophylla (UR) belongs to the Rubiaceae family, and its dried hooks are usually used in traditional medicine. It is effective in treating diseases related to the central nervous system. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of UR extract, investigate its antimutagenic and antioxidative activities, and elucidate its active components. Extraction and fractionation of the UR extract resulted in yields of 6.71%, 0.037%, 0.042%, 0.152%, 0.332%, and 5.132%, for hexane, ether, DCM, EtOAC, and aqueous fractions, respectively. The four indole alkaloids, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) of UR extract and its subfractions were measured. Alkaloid content was highest in the UR extract. TPC was the highest in the EtOAC fraction (373.7 ± 20.9 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g), whereas TFC was the highest in the UR extract (33.5 ± 2.4 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g). To assess the safety of UR extract mutagenicity, cytotoxicity, and oxidative stress inducibility assays were performed. The UR extract (2000 µg/plate) showed excellent antimutagenic activity (above 90%) against BaP in both TA98 and TA100 strains. The UR extract exhibited efficient DPPH (RC₅₀ 239.2 ± 16.5 µg/mL) and ABTS scavenging activity (RC₅₀ 458.7 ± 25.0 µg/mL). The UR extract (150 µg/mL) showed cytoprotective activity (65.6% ± 9.2%) against t-BHP. Among the subfractions, the EtOAC fraction possessed the strongest activities, overall. UR generally showed excellent biological activity at nontoxic concentrations (determined in vitro in current work), although the chemical composition of UR requires further investigation prior to its potential future use.

Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Toothpaste with Swiss Medicinal Herbs towards Patients Suffering from Gingivitis and Initial Stage of Periodontitis: from Clinical Efficacy to Mechanisms

Objective: To distinguish clinical effects and mechanisms of sodium monofluorophosphate plus xylitol and herbal extracts of Swiss medicinal plants (Chamomilla recutita, Arnica montana, Echinacea purpurea, and Salvia officinalis). Materials and Methods: A 2-month-long comparative clinical study of toothpaste containing 1450 ppm sodium monofluorophosphate and xylitol (control, 15 patients) and toothpaste additionally containing extracts of the medicinal herbs (experiment, 35 patients) was performed on patients with gingivitis and the initial stage of periodontitis. Clinical indices of gingivitis/periodontitis were quantified by Loe & Silness’s, CPITN, OHI-S, and PMA indexes. The pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory interleukins, nitrites/nitrates, total antioxidant activity, and bacterial pattern characteristic for gingivitis and periodontitis were quantified in the gingival crevicular fluid and plaque. In the in vitro tests, direct anti-bacterial effects, inhibition of catalase induction in Staphylococcus aureus, in response to oxidative burst of phagocytes, and intracellular bacterial killing were determined for the toothpastes, individual plant extracts, and their mixture. Results: Experimental toothpaste was more efficient clinically and in the diminishing of bacterial load specific for gingivitis/periodontitis. Although the control toothpaste exerted a direct moderate anti-bacterial effect, herbal extracts provided anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, direct, and indirect anti-bacterial actions through inhibition of bacterial defence against phagocytes. Conclusions: Chemical and plant-derived anti-bacterials to treat gingivitis and periodontitis at the initial stage should be used in combination amid their different mechanisms of action. Plant-derived actives for oral care could substitute toxic chemicals due to multiple modes of positive effects.

Salvia officinalis, Rosmarinic and Caffeic Acids Attenuate Neuropathic Pain and Improve Function Recovery after Sciatic Nerve Chronic Constriction in Mice

The leaves of Salvia officinalis L. have a traditional reputation for the management of pain in Morocco. This study was conducted to investigate the curative effects of Salvia officinalis (SO) and its major constituents Rosmarinic (ROS) and Caffeic acids (CAF) on peripheral neuropathic pain in mice. Chronic constriction injury (CCI) was induced in mice, and neuropathic pain behaviors tests were evaluated by mechanical, chemical, thermal sensation tests and functional recovery of the sciatic nerve at different time intervals, i.e., (day 0, 1, 7, 14, and 21). Ethanolic extract of SO (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.), ROS (10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.), CAF (30 and 40 mg/kg, i.p.), and CLOM (5 mg/kg, i.p., a positive control) was given for 21 days after surgery. Hematological and biochemical parameters were also measured as well as histopathological analysis. CCI produced significant development in mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia, cold allodynia, and rise in the sciatic functional index in mice. Chronic treatments with SO extract, ROS, CAF, and CLOM for 3 weeks significantly increased mechanical sensibility, cold, and thermal withdrawal latency and enhanced functional recovery of the injured nerve. The same treatments remarkably ameliorated hematological parameters and did not alter biochemical levels. The histopathological findings had revealed the protective effect of SO, ROS, and CAF against the CCI-induced damage. Our data support the use of SO in folk medicine to alleviate pain. Their main phenolic constituents could be promising antineuropathic compounds, which may be attributed to their biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. SO leaves may be a good candidate to treat neuropathic pain.

Medicinal Plant Extracts and Their Use As Wound Closure Inducing Agents

Skin insult and damage start a complex healing process that involves a myriad of coordinated reactions at both the cellular and molecular level occurring simultaneously. These processes can be divided into that of cell migration and tissue remodeling of the wound. In addition, it is well known that deep wounds that derive from surgical procedures need a multidisciplinary approach to have a successful wound healing process. Recently, there has been a renowned interest in the identification of active compounds derived from ornamental, edible, and wild plants being used in the cosmetic and skin product industry. Recent reports suggest that active components of several plants such as Propolis and Aloe vera could be used to induce the process of wound healing and tissue regeneration and reducing therefore the time to complete wound closure. Other plant species such as Achillea millefolium or Salvia officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties and promote cellular proliferation contributing to faster tissue regeneration. It has been described that Malva sylvestris influences the formation of fibrosis-free granulation tissue in the skin. Recent observations suggest that Casearia sylvestris induces the angiogenic process. These effects have been evaluated in cell lines, different animal models, and some in randomized clinical trials. In this review we summarize the evidence of plant extracts and their active components (when known) in the acceleration of the wound closure process and tissue repair.

Protective effects of Coptis chinensis inflorescence extract and linarin against carbon tetrachloride-induced damage in HepG2 cells through the MAPK/Keap1-Nrf2 pathway

Coptis chinensis inflorescence is traditionally used as tea and has been popular in the local market. C. chinensis inflorescence extract (CE) exhibits protective effects against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced damage, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The main chemicals of CE were detected, purified, and identified in this study. CE and linarin could reverse changes in cell viability, decrease alanine aminotransferase and aspartate transaminase levels, and reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation induced by CCl4 in HepG2 cells. CE and linarin could also phosphorylate mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and up-regulate Kelth-like ECH-associated protein (Keap1). The pathways of MAPKs and Keap1 lead to the separation of Keap1 and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2). Free Nrf2 transferred to the nucleus and enhanced the expression of phase II detoxification enzymes. This study provides a scientific basis for the use of C. chinensis inflorescence, which exhibits a hepatoprotective function, as a supplement in the food industry.

Autism, Mitochondria and Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Exposure

BACKGROUND

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a growing concern with more than 1 in every 68 children affected in the United States by age 8. Limited scientific advances have been made regarding the etiology of autism, with general agreement that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to this disorder.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the link between exposure to PBDE, mitochondrial dysfunction and autism risk.

RESULTS

Perinatal exposures to PBDEs may contribute to the etiology or morbidity of ASD including mitochondrial dysfunction based on (i) their increased environmental abundance and human exposures, (ii) their activity towards implicated in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity including mitochondria, and (iii) their bioaccumulation in mitochondria.

CONCLUSION

In this review, we propose that PBDE, and possibly other environmental exposures, during child development can induce or compound mitochondrial dysfunction, which in conjunction with a dysregulated antioxidant response, increase a child's susceptibility of autism.

Protective effects of flavonoids isolated from Korean milk thistle Cirsium japonicum var. maackii (Maxim.) Matsum on tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced hepatotoxicity in HepG2 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Milk thistle leaves and flowers have been traditionally used as herbal remedy to alleviate liver diseases for decades. Korean milk thistle, Cirsium japonicum var. maackii (Maxim.) Matsum has been employed in traditional folk medicine as diuretic, antiphlogistic, hemostatic, and detoxifying agents.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of current investigation was to evaluate hepatoprotective properties of the MeOH extract of the roots, stems, leaves and flowers of Korean milk thistle as well as four isolated flavonoids, luteolin, luteolin 5-O-glucoside, apigenin and apigenin 7-O-glucuronide during t-BHP-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hepatoprotective potential of the MeOH extracts and flavonoids derived from Korean milk thistle against t-BHP-induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells were evaluated following MTT method. Incubating HepG2 cells with t-BHP markedly decreased the cell viability and increased the intracellular ROS generation accompanied by depleted GSH levels. Protein expression of heme oxygenase (HO-1) and nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) was determined by Western blot.

RESULTS

Our findings revealed that pretreating HepG2 cells with MeOH extracts and bioactive flavonoids significantly attenuated the t-BHP-induced oxidative damage, followed by increased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. The results illustrate that excess ROS generation was reduced and GSH levels increased dose-dependently when HepG2 cells were pretreated with four flavonoids. Moreover, Western blotting analysis demonstrated that protein expressions of Nrf-2 and HO-1 were also up-regulated by flavonoids treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results clearly demonstrate that the MeOH extracts and flavonoids from Korean milk thistle protected HepG2 cells against oxidative damage triggered by t-BHP principally by modulating ROS generation and restoring depleted GSH levels in addition to the increased Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling cascade. These flavonoids are potential natural antioxidative biomarkers against oxidative stress-induced hepatotoxicity.

Phytochemical Investigation, Antitumor Activity, and Hepatoprotective Effects of Acrocarpus fraxinifolius Leaf Extract

Preclinical Research Nine known phenolic compounds were isolated from an aqueous methanolic extract of Acrocarpus fraxinifolius Weight and Arn leaves (AFL) family Fabaceae. This extract of AFL contained approximately 169 mg gallic acid/g as assessed by HPLC. The AFL extract had marginal antitumor activity (IC₅₀  > 200 µL/mL) but showed a concentration-dependent hepatoprotective effect against CCl₄ -induced hepatotoxicity in vitro. Cell viability was increased, ALT and AST activity declined and reduced GSH concentration and SOD activity were restored as compared with silymarin. In vivo concurrent administration of AFL extract (500 mg/kg po) showed a hepatoprotective effect against gamma irradiation and CCl₄ as evidenced by reduction of TNF-α, interleukin-6, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, DNA fragmentation, caspase-3 activity, and downregulation of its m-RNA level and decreased proapoptotic protein Bax expression. AFL extract enhanced glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities, reduced glutathione concentrations and upregulated the expression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2. The extract could ameliorate hepatic injuries induced by gamma irradiation and CCl₄ in rats suggesting potent hepatoprotective activity. Drug Dev Res 78 : 210-226, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Tussilagonone-induced Nrf2 pathway activation protects HepG2 cells from oxidative injury

Tussilagonone is a compound derived from the medicinal plant Tussilago farfara L., which is used as a traditional medicine for respiratory diseases, including asthma and pneumonia. Recent reports suggest that tussilagonone exhibits anti-inflammatory effects; however, the scope of protective functions has not been elucidated yet. In this study, we demonstrate that tussilagonone enhances cellular detoxification by increasing quinone reductase activity in Hepa1c1c7 cells. In addition, tussilagonone decreased tert-butyl hydroperoxide(t-BHP)-induced ROS production and cell death, suggesting that it also acts as a potent antioxidant. To verify the molecular mechanism underlying tussilagonone activity, we examined the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)-a transcription factor that regulates antioxidant protein expression-in HepG2 cells. Significantly, these results showed that tussilagonone induces Nrf2 activation and nuclear accumulation, resulting in the upregulation of the detoxifying enzymes NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1(NQO1) and heme oxygenase-1(HO-1) that protect cells from oxidative stress. Further molecular analyses revealed that tussilagonone-induced Nrf2 activation was mediated by ERK1/2 in HepG2 cells. Collectively, these data indicate that tussilagonone attenuates t-BHP-induced ROS and activates quinone reductase activity via Nrf2 pathway activation and target gene expression, and thereby acts as an antioxidant that protects HepG2 cells from oxidative stress and associated damage.

Conductive polymer-based bioelectrochemical assembly for in vitro cytotoxicity evaluation: Renoprotective assessment of Salvia officinalis against carbon tetrachloride induced nephrotoxicity

BACKGROUND

The rise of organic electronics represents one of the most prominent technological developments of the last two decades, with its interface with biological systems highlighting new directions of research. The "soft" nature of conducting polymers renders them unique platforms for cell-based microdevices, allowing their implementation in drug discovery, pharmaceutical effect analysis, environmental pollutant testing etc.

METHODS

Cellular adhesion, proliferation and viability experiments were carried out to verify the biocompatibility of a PEDOT conductive polymer surface. Cyclic voltammetry was employed for estimating the electrocatalytic activity of the renal cell/electrode interface. The nephrotoxicity agent CCl₄ and the medicinal plant Salvia officinalis were used on the proposed assembly. Renal cell viability was also assayed through the MTT assay.

RESULTS

Renal cells were able to adhere and proliferate on the conducting polymer surface. Electrochemical responses of the polymer exhibited good correlation with cell number and CCl₄ concentration. Amelioration of the CCl₄-induced renotoxicity by co-incubation with Salvia officinalis extract was demonstrated by both the MTT assay and the electrode's capacitance.

CONCLUSIONS

A conducting polymer-based bioelectrochemical assembly was established for in vitro mammalian cytotoxicity/cytoprotection assessment, employing renal cell monolayers as the primary transducers for signal generation and biological sensing.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

The knowledge on PEDOT mammalian cell biocompatibility and possible applications was expanded. The proposed interdisciplinary approach connects soft electronics with biology and could provide a useful tool for preliminary crude drug screening and bioactivity studies of natural products or plant extracts in vitro.

Spinal cord injury effectively ameliorated by neuroprotective effects of rosmarinic acid

OBJECTIVE

Pathophysiology of spinal cord injury (SCI) causes primary and secondary effects leading to loss of neuronal function. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of rosmarinic acid (RA) in protection against SCI.

METHODS

The experimental study was carried out in male wistar rats categorized into three groups. Group I - sham operated rats; Group II - SCI; Group III - SCI followed by RA treatment (10 mg/kg). The spinal tissues after treatment schedule were analyzed for oxidative stress status through determination of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, protein damage (carbonyl and sulfhydryl contents), and antioxidant enzyme activities. The expression of oxidative stress factors NF-κB and Nrf-2 was determined by Western blot analysis. Further pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, and IL-1β) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The results show that treatment with RA significantly enhances the antioxidant status and decrease the oxidative stress in wistar rats post-SCI. RA effectively ameliorated inflammatory mechanisms by downregulation of NF-κB and pro-inflammatory cytokines post-SCI.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates for the first time on the role of RA in protecting the spinal cord from injury and demonstrates its neuroprotection in wistar rats.

The protective role of plant biophenols in mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease

Self-assembly of amyloid beta peptide (Aβ) into the neurotoxic oligomers followed by fibrillar aggregates is a defining characteristic of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several lines of proposed hypotheses have suggested the mechanism of AD pathology, though the exact pathophysiological mechanism is not yet elucidated. The poor understanding of AD and multitude of adverse responses reported from the current synthetic drugs are the leading cause of failure in the drug development to treat or halt the progression of AD and mandate the search for safer and more efficient alternatives. A number of natural compounds have shown the ability to prevent the formation of the toxic oligomers and disrupt the aggregates, thus attracted much attention. Referable to the abundancy and multitude of pharmacological activities of the plant active constituents, biophenols that distinguish them from the other phytochemicals as a natural weapon against the neurodegenerative disorders. This review provides a critical assessment of the current literature on in vitro and in vivo mechanistic activities of biophenols associated with the prevention and treatment of AD. We have contended the need for more comprehensive approaches to evaluate the anti-AD activity of biophenols at various pathologic levels and to assess the current evidences. Consequently, we highlighted the various problems and challenges confronting the AD research, and offer recommendations for future research.

Pharmacological properties of Salvia officinalis and its components

Salvia officinalis (Sage) is a plant in the family of Labiatae/Lamiaceae. It is native to Middle East and Mediterranean areas, but today has been naturalized throughout the world. In folk medicine, S. officinalis has been used for the treatment of different kinds of disorders including seizure, ulcers, gout, rheumatism, inflammation, dizziness, tremor, paralysis, diarrhea, and hyperglycemia. In recent years, this plant has been a subject of intensive studies to document its traditional use and to find new biological effects. These studies have revealed a wide range of pharmacological activities for S. officinalis. Present review highlights the up-to-date information on the pharmacological findings that have been frequently reported for S. officinalis. These findings include anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, antidementia, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects. Also, chemical constituents responsible for pharmacological effects of S. officinalis and the clinical studies on this plant are presented and discussed.

Protective effects of the extracts of Barringtonia racemosa shoots against oxidative damage in HepG2 cells

Barringtonia racemosa is a tropical plant with medicinal values. In this study, the ability of the water extracts of the leaf (BLE) and stem (BSE) from the shoots to protect HepG2 cells against oxidative damage was studied. Five major polyphenolic compounds consisting of gallic acid, ellagic acid, protocatechuic acid, quercetin and kaempferol were identified using HPLC-DAD and ESI-MS. Cell viability assay revealed that BLE and BSE were non-cytotoxic (cell viabilities >80%) at concentration less than 250 µg/ml and 500 µg/ml, respectively. BLE and BSE improved cellular antioxidant status measured by FRAP assay and protected HepG2 cells against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity. The extracts also inhibited lipid peroxidation in HepG2 cells as well as the production of reactive oxygen species. BLE and BSE could also suppress the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase during oxidative stress. The shoots of B. racemosa can be an alternative bioactive ingredient in the prevention of oxidative damage.

Colon Cancer Chemoprevention by Sage Tea Drinking: Decreased DNA Damage and Cell Proliferation

Salvia officinalis and some of its isolated compounds have been found to be preventive of DNA damage and increased proliferation in vitro in colon cells. In the present study, we used the azoxymethane model to test effects of S. officinalis on colon cancer prevention in vivo. The results showed that sage treatment reduced the number of ACF formed only if administered before azoxymethane injection, demonstrating that sage tea drinking has a chemopreventive effect on colorectal cancer. A decrease in the proliferation marker Ki67 and in H2 O2 -induced and azoxymethane-induced DNA damage to colonocytes and lymphocytes were found with sage treatment. This confirms in vivo the chemopreventive effects of S. officinalis. Taken together, our results show that sage treatment prevented initiation phases of colon carcinogenesis, an effect due, at least in part, to DNA protection, and reduced proliferation rates of colon epithelial cell that prevent mutations and their fixation through cell replication. These chemopreventive effects of S. officinalis on colon cancer add to the many health benefits attributed to sage and encourage its consumption.

Salvia officinalis L. extract and its new food antioxidant formulations induce apoptosis through mitochondrial/caspase pathway in leukemia L1210 cells

Salvia officinalis, L. (Lamiaceae) is one of the most widespread herbal species used in the area of human health and in the food-processing industry. Salvia and its extracts are known to be a rich source of antioxidants. As shown previously, the crude ethanolic extract of salvia (SE) exerts lower anti-oxidative properties in lard compared to the new salvia food formulations No. 1 (SF1; 32% of SE + 68% of the emulsifier Dimodan S-T) and No. 2 (SF2; 32% of SE + 68% of the emulsifier Topcithin 50).

The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the effects of the SE and its food formulations SF1 and SF2 on the toxicity and/or proliferation of L1210 leukemia cells. We found that SE and both SF1 and SF2 demonstrated different concentration- and time-dependent cytotoxic/antiproliferative cellular effects already within the first 24 h of the treatment. However, SE was nearly 10 times more effective than the new salvia food formulations SF1 and SF2.

We investigated partially also the molecular mechanisms lying behind the action of SE, SF1 and SF2 induced apoptosis in our cell model. We found an apparent involvement of the mitochondrial/caspase-dependent pathway in the described processes. Nevertheless, further investigation is needed before salvia extract and its new antioxidant formulations can be included among the potential food antioxidants with protective properties against cancer.

Significance of antioxidant potential of plants and its relevance to therapeutic applications

Oxidative stress has been identified as the root cause of the development and progression of several diseases. Supplementation of exogenous antioxidants or boosting endogenous antioxidant defenses of the body is a promising way of combating the undesirable effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced oxidative damage. Plants have an innate ability to biosynthesize a wide range of non-enzymatic antioxidants capable of attenuating ROS- induced oxidative damage. Several in vitro methods have been used to screen plants for their antioxidant potential, and in most of these assays they revealed potent antioxidant activity. However, prior to confirming their in vivo therapeutic efficacy, plant antioxidants have to pass through several physiopharmacological processes. Consequently, the findings of in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potential assessment studies are not always the same. Nevertheless, the results of in vitro assays have been irrelevantly extrapolated to the therapeutic application of plant antioxidants without undertaking sufficient in vivo studies. Therefore, we have briefly reviewed the physiology and redox biology of both plants and humans to improve our understanding of plant antioxidants as therapeutic entities. The applications and limitations of antioxidant activity measurement assays were also highlighted to identify the precise path to be followed for future research in the area of plant antioxidants.

Antigenotoxic and antioxidant effects of the Mongolian medicinal plant Leptopyrum fumarioides (L): an in vitro study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Leptopyrum fumarioides has been used in the traditional medicine of Mongolia for the treatment of various diseases, including drug intoxications. However, since there is only sparse information about its chemistry, active components, and pharmacological and toxicological effects, the major aim of the present study employing mouse lymphoma cells was to evaluate the genotoxic and antigenotoxic/antioxidative effects of extracts and components isolated from this plant.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A crude methanol extract was separated into three different sub-extracts: dichloromethane, n-butanol, and water. The major constituent of the n-butanol extract, i.e., the flavone luteolin-7-O-glucoside and a mixture of the most abundant compounds in the dichloromethane sub-extract were then isolated. DNA damage was evaluated using the comet assay; the antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay.

RESULTS

The crude methanol extract, the dichloromethane sub-extract and the mixture of compounds isolated from the latter fraction, increased the level of DNA damage after three hours of exposure. In contrast, no increase in DNA damage was observed in the cells that had been exposed to the n-butanol and water sub-extracts, or to the pure flavone. When non-DNA damaging concentrations of extracts and compounds were tested together with the DNA damaging agent catechol, all sub-extracts were found to reduce the catechol-induced DNA damage (the flavone was then found to be the most effective protective agent). The n-butanol sub-extract and the flavone were also found to have the most prominent antioxidative effects.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results from the present study, components in Leptopyrum fumarioides were found to protect the DNA damage induced by catechol, probably by acting as potent antioxidants.

Two xanthones from Swertia punicea with hepatoprotective activities in vitro and in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Swertia punicea Hemsl. (Gentianaceae) is more commonly known as "Ganyan-cao" and used mainly as a traditional Chinese folk medicine for the treatment of acute bilious hepatitis, cholecystitis, fever, intoxification and jaundice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The active hepatoprotective constituents of Swertia punicea were purified using various column chromatography techniques. The structures of two isolated compounds were determined on the basis of spectroscopic data interpretation such as NMR analysis. The hepatoprotective activities of isolated compounds were evaluated by using hepatotoxicity in vitro and dimethylnitrosamine-induced rat hepatic fibrosis in vivo, respectively.

RESULTS

Two xanthones, 1, 7-dihydroxy-3, 4, 8-trimethoxyxanthone (1) and bellidifolin (2) were isolated from the stems of Swertia punicea. The compounds 1 and 2 exhibited notable hepatoprotective activities against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) -induced HepG2 cell damage, and effectively alleviated the levels of aspartate transaminase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malonic dialdehyde (MDA) induced by CCl₄ in a concentration-dependent manner. Co-treatment with compound 2 significantly increased the cell viability compared with N-acetyl-p-aminophenol (APAP) treatment. Compound 2 also alleviated APAP-induced hepatotoxicity by increasing glutathione (GSH) content and decreasing hydroxyl free radical (·OH) levels and reactive oxygen specises (ROS) production. In addition, the protective effect of compound 1 significantly alleviated DMN-induced liver inflammation and fibrosis. Oral administration of compound 1 recovered the reduction of albumin (ALB) and reversed the elevation of serum alanine transaminase (ALT), AST and total bilirubin (TBIL) in dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced fibrotic rats. Severe oxidative stress induced in fibrotic rats was evidenced by a 1.5-fold elevation in MDA and a fall in the SOD activity, and treatment with compound 1 protected against these adverse effects. Recovery of rat liver tissue against DMN-induced hepatocellular necrosis, inflammatory changes and hepatic fibrosis by compound 1 is also confirmed by H&E and Masson stained histopathological evaluation of liver tissue.

CONCLUSION

Two xanthones from Swertia punicea exhibited hepatoprotective activities in vitro (compounds 1 and 2) and in vivo (compound 1), respectively.

The antiangiogenic activities of ethanolic crude extracts of four Salvia species

Background

Angiogenesis is one of cancer hallmarks that are required for both cancer progression and metastasis. In this study we examined the antiangiogenic properties of the ethanolic crude extracts of four Salvia species grown in Jordan.

Methods

The direct antiangiogenic activity was evaluated using various models: ex vivo rat aortic ring assay, in vitro assessment of HUVEC proliferation and migration, and in vivo CAM assay, while we used the changes in the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF in breast cancer cells (MCF 7) as an indicative for the indirect antiangiogenic activity.

Results

All four crude extracts showed a potential antiangiogenic activity in the rat aortic assay, however two species were found to be cytotoxic against Fibroblast cell line (PLF); the finding that caused the exclusion of these two extracts from further studies. Of the two remaining extracts, S. triloba showed very promising direct and indirect antiangiogenic activities. S. triloba inhibited the HUVEC proliferation with an IC₅₀ of 90 μg/mL and HUVEC migration by 82% at 150 μg/mL. Furthermore, the in vivo CAM assay also illustrated the high impact of S. triloba against the newly formed vessel in the chicken embryonic membrane. Interestingly, the S. triloba inhibited the expression of VEGF at the mRNA and protein and the HIF-1α mRNA in the MCF 7 breast cancer cells under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions.

Conclusions

Taken together, all these findings of the direct and indirect angiogenic investigations nominated S. triloba as a highly potent antiangiogenic plant that may have chemotherapeutic and/or chemoprevention potentials.

Antioxidant activity and protective effects of Trapa japonica pericarp extracts against tert-butylhydroperoxide-induced oxidative damage in Chang cells

In this study, the antioxidant properties of Trapa japonica pericarp extracts were evaluated through several biochemical assays: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), alkyl radical scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, ABTS radical scavenging activity and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The antioxidant activities were compared with other natural and synthetic antioxidants. The results showed that higher radical scavenging activity and antioxidant capacity in FRAP than those of vitamin C as a positive control. T. japonica pericarp extracts have antioxidant properties through its ability to prevent tert-butylhydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced toxicity which enhance the cell viability, reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, inhibits of oxidative damage and mitochondria dysfunction in Chang liver cells. Therefore, based on these finding, it seems reasonable to suggest that T. japonica pericarp extracts has the potential to protect liver against t-BHP-induced cell damage and should be considered as a potential functional food.

Protective effects of alkaloid compounds from Nelumbinis Plumula on tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced oxidative stress

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Nelumbinis Plumula total alkaloid (NPA) and its main alkaloid components on oxidative stress induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP) in the human hepatocellular HepG2 cell line. According to HPLC analysis, several major alkaloid compounds such as liensinine, isoliensinine and neferine were present in NPA. The cytotoxic effects in 0.55 mM t-BHP-induced HepG2 cells were significantly inhibited by NPA and the major compound in NPA, neferine, showed the strongest activities. The protective effect of neferine against oxidative stress induced by t-BHP may be associated with decreased ROS formation, TBARS generation, LDH release and increased GSH levels, suggesting their involvement of the cytoprotective on oxidative stress. The effects were comparable with quercetin, which was used as positive control. Overall, total alkaloid and alkaloid compounds from Nelumbinis Plumula displayed a significant cytoprotective effect against oxidative stress. Further study is needed to elucidate the relationship between the chemical structures of the components in NPA and their protective effect on oxidative stress.

Effects of Salvia officinalis and Thymus vulgaris on oxidant-induced DNA damage and antioxidant status in HepG2 cells

Salvia officinalis (SO) and Thymus vulgaris (TV) are medicinal plants well known for their curative powers. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for these abilities of sage and thyme have not been fully understood yet. In this study we investigated the composition and the quantitative estimation of plant extracts, the protective effects of plant extracts against hydrogen peroxide- and 2,3-dimethoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone-induced DNA damage, and levels of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione) in human HepG2 cells. To measure antioxidative activity of plant extracts we used three assays: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS). The results showed that the oxidant-induced DNA lesions were significantly reduced in cells pre-treated with the plant extracts studied. The observed DNA-protective activity could be explained by both elevation of GPx activity in cells pre-treated with SO and TV and antioxidant activity of SO and TV.

Chemical and biological evaluation of nephrocizin in protecting nerve growth factor-differentiated PC12 cells by 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neurotoxicity

The neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) has been widely used to generate an experimental model of Parkinson's disease. This model is crucial in the search for compounds that diminish 6-OHDA-induced nerve growth factor (NGF)-differentiated PC12 cell death. Nephrocizin (luteolin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside), a flavone glycoside, was isolated from widely distributed plants. The protective effects of pre-treatment with nephrocizin on the induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells by 6-OHDA and its oxidative products, H₂O₂-, and p-quinone, were evaluated herein. Nephrocizin promoted cell viability, scavenged ROS-related products, increased cellular glutathione (GSH) levels, and reduced caspase-3 and -8 activities in 6-OHDA-, H₂O₂-, or p-quinone-treated PC12 cells. Furthermore, nephrocizin-conjugated metabolites in PC12 cells were identified with the boronate-affinity method and LC-MS technology, and preferential regioselectivity at the C2' and C5' positions by the nephrocizin-GSH (or NAC) adduct method was observed. These lines of evidence established that nephrocizin could form a dimer to diminish the intracellular ROS. These results demonstrate the first neuroprotective mechanism of nephrocizin against 6-OHDA-, H₂O₂- or p-quinone-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells via chemical and biological studies. These dietary antioxidants are potential candidates for use in intervention in neurodegenerative diseases.

Antioxidative and cytoprotective effects of andrographolide against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in HepG2 cells

This article describes antioxidative and cytoprotective property of andrographolide, a major active component of the plant Andrographis paniculata ( A. paniculata). High yields (2.7%) of andrographolide was isolated from the aerial parts of this plant via silica column chromatography. The purity of the compound was determined by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The structure was elucidated using techniques such as UV-visible spectrophotometry, elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) and mass spectral analysis and the data obtained were comparable with reported results. It was observed that andrographolide exhibited significant antioxidative property (IC50 = 3.2 µg/ml) by its ability to scavenge a stable free radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) as compared to known antioxidants like ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) and the plant extract. The cytoprotective role of andrographolide against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) toxicity in human hepatoma HepG2 cell line was assessed using trypan blue exclusion test, 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, by estimation of various leakage enzymes and by measuring the glutathione levels. The recovery obtained for andrographolide treatment in the presence of CCl4 was two-fold compared to A. paniculata extract for all other related biochemical parameters investigated. The results of the study indicate that andrographolide is a potent inhibitor of CCl4-mediated lipid peroxidation.