TNF-α modulation by natural bioactive molecules in mouse RAW 264.7 macrophage cells

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Immunology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Plant-derived products are widely marketed for human health benefits.
• Investigating their anti-inflammatory potential is crucial for evidence-based recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of selected plant-derived products.
• To assess the impact of these products on macrophage cell proliferation and viability.

Main Methods:

• Mouse macrophage RAW 264.6 cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammation.
• Tumor necrotic factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were quantified as a biomarker of inflammation.
• Cell proliferation was assessed using the MTT assay.
• Tested products included Saskatoon berry (SKB), quercetin, oat beta-glucan (OBG), curcumin, and turmeric.

Main Results:

• Curcumin (10 µM) attenuated LPS-induced TNF-α production; higher concentrations were cytotoxic.
• Turmeric extract, SKB, and quercetin demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of TNF-α.
• SKB and quercetin also promoted cell proliferation at certain concentrations.
• OBG inhibited TNF-α at lower doses but was toxic at higher concentrations (1,000–10,000 µg/mL).

Conclusions:

• Plant-derived products exhibit varied anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects in vitro.
• Dualistic actions on macrophage cell growth and inflammation warrant further mechanistic investigation.