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

Summary

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.

Key words:
Macleaya cordata – anti-inflammatory effect – anti-oxidative effect – reactive oxygen species – glutathione – lipopolysaccharide – interleukine-6 – cyclooxygenase-2