Anti-inflammatory activity of novel natural plant extracts composition—LevidorTM
Abstract
Introduction
Due to the severe side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, there is an urgent need to find new natural or synthetic chemicals that could act as selective inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). The most valuable source of new bioactive compounds and potential drugs are plants. The present study aimed at the investigation of LevidorTM, a patented composition based on oil from the seeds of Nigella sativa and extract from the root of Angelica archangelica, regarding its potential anti-inflammatory effects on the molecular level.
Materials and Methods
Studies were carried out with the use of murine macrophages (RAW 264.7), human monocytes (U937), and rat pheochromocytoma (PC-12) cell lines. The cytotoxicity of the LevidorTM extract was evaluated by MTT assay. The concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) was evaluated by ELISA. Moreover, the analysis of COX-1 and COX-2 mRNA expression levels by RT-PCR, as well as protein level by Western blot and immunofluorescent staining, were assessed.
Results
The LevidorTM extract did not impact cell growth and showed anti-inflammatory effect in the present study. It was able to decrease the level of IL-6, TNF-α and suppress transcription of COX-2, whereas it had no effect on COX-1.
Conclusions
Obtained results showed that LevidorTM exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties and may provide a significant alternative to traditionally used medicines in acute pain and chronic inflammation.
© 2023 Monika Kuczyńska, Paulina Kasprzyk, Magdalena Leszczyńska-Wiloch, Joanna Bidzińska, Marcin Martyniak, Alicja Wilandt, Krzysztof Lemke, published by Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy
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