Effect of Macleaya Cordata (Willd) R.Br. Extract on Expression of Inflammatory Markers and Oxidative Stress in Gingival Fibroblasts

Abstract

Introduction: Macleaya cordata (Willd.) contains quaternary benzo[c]phenantridine alkaloids sanguinarine and chelerythrine. The alkaloid extract of M. cordata (MCE) is known for its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activities and thus is used as an active component in dental care products. Aim of work: The study examined the effects of MCE on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in human gingival fibroblasts. Material and Methods: The effect of MCE (0.01-10 µg/ml) on human gingival fibroblasts viability was evaluated using neutral red incorporation in the cells. Non-toxic concentrations of the extract (0.25 and 0.5 µg/ml) were used for evaluation of MCE effects on GSH level (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and interleukine-6 (IL-6) expression in cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Results: MCE components induced the increase in intracellular GSH, decrease in ROS generation and reduction of the IL-6 and COX-6 expression in LPS-treated human gingival fibroblasts. Conclusion: The alkaloid extract of M. cordata suppresses the inflammation and oxidative stress in human gingival fibroblasts and it could be practically used in the treatment of periodontitis and alveolitis.

Keywords

• macleaya cordata
• anti-inflammatory effect
• anti-oxidative effect
• reactive oxygen species
• glutathione
• lipopolysaccharide
• interleukine-6
• cyclooxygenase-2