Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Dec 27, 2024 18 hours, 2 minutes ago
Medical News: Scientists from Wroclaw Medical University, Cracow University of Technology, and the University of Split have unveiled promising findings about the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Basella alba, also known as Malabar spinach. The fruits of this leafy vegetable, particularly its dark-colored variety (Basella alba f. rubra), are rich in gomphrenins, a unique class of betacyanins. These compounds have shown significant potential in addressing inflammation-related health issues.
Discovering New Anti-Inflammatory Potentials in Basella Alba Fruits
What the Study Focused On
Betalains, the class of compounds to which gomphrenins belong, are known for their vibrant colors and potential health benefits. They are commonly found in plants like beets and amaranths. However, the focus of
Medical News report is the less-explored Basella alba f. rubra, whose fruits are exceptionally rich in rare gomphrenin derivatives.
The study utilized both crude extracts and purified gomphrenin-enriched fractions from the fruits. Researchers aimed to evaluate their ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which play central roles in chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions.
Methodology and Experimental Insights
The research team conducted a series of experiments using human and animal cell models. The study utilized advanced analytical techniques such as LC-MS and various biological assays to analyze the bioactive properties of the extracts. Key markers like reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) were measured to assess the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of the extracts.
The findings revealed that both the crude extract and gomphrenin-enriched fraction reduced oxidative stress markers like ROS and NO. They also inhibited the secretion of IL-1β, a cytokine known to exacerbate inflammation. Interestingly, while both extracts demonstrated significant bioactivity, the gomphrenin-enriched fraction exhibited stronger effects in many parameters.
Key Findings
-Reduction in Oxidative Stress: The extracts significantly decreased ROS and NO levels, which are critical contributors to cellular damage during inflammation. The gomphrenin-enriched fraction was particularly effective, showcasing a consistent ability to neutralize these harmful molecules.
-Inhibition of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines: IL-1β and IL-6 are cytokines that amplify inflammatory responses. The study showed that both extracts could inhibit IL-1β secretion, although their effect on IL-6 was less pronounced.
-Impact on Cyclooxygenase (COX) Enzymes: The COX enzymes, particularly COX-2, are major drivers of inflammation and pain. The gomphrenin-enriched fraction demonstrated a concentration-dependent inhibition of COX activity, hig
hlighting its therapeutic potential.
-Lipid Peroxidation Prevention: Lipid peroxidation, a process where free radicals attack lipids in cell membranes, was significantly reduced by both extracts. This suggests their potential to protect cells from oxidative damage.
-Dose-Dependent Efficacy: While the enriched fraction displayed concentration-dependent effects in reducing oxidative and inflammatory markers, the crude extract's efficacy varied, indicating complex interactions among its constituents.
Implications for Health and Medicine
These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of Basella alba f. rubra fruits in combating inflammation and oxidative stress. The dual ability to mitigate oxidative damage and suppress inflammatory pathways positions these extracts as candidates for further research into natural remedies for chronic inflammatory conditions. The use of plant-based bioactives like gomphrenins aligns with the growing demand for safer and more sustainable therapeutic options.
Conclusion
The study concluded that both crude extracts and gomphrenin-enriched fractions from Basella alba f. rubra offer significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. The enriched fraction, in particular, showed greater efficacy in many of the tests, indicating that purification enhances its therapeutic properties. This research not only highlights the importance of Basella alba as a dietary supplement but also paves the way for its potential use in medical applications.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Nutrients.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/24/4393
For the latest on Herbs and Phytochemicals, keep on logging to Thailand
Medical News.
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/italian-study-finds-that-aged-garlic-extract-reduces-inflammatory-genes-induced-by-covid-19-infections-or-vaccines
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/singapore-led-study-finds-papaya-leaf-extract-effective-against-coronaviruses-and-inflammation
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/the-phytochemical-honokiol-from-the-magnolia-tree-combats-neuroinflammation-and-brain-aging
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/herbs-and-phytochemicals
Share
Tweet
Share
