Cytoprotective effect and antioxidant activity of Sambucus nigra L. after gamma radiation exposure Cytoprotective effect and antioxidant activity of Sambucus nigra L.
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Abstract
Radiation exposure triggers harmful effects such as free radical surges, oxidative stress, and genetic and cellular toxicity, ultimately leading to cell death. In this study, a freeze-dried fruit extract of Sambucus nigra L. (S. nigra), rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins was tested at a concentration of 4 µL.mL-1 for its potential protective effects against radiation-induced genetic and cellular damage in human lymphocyte cells. Key indicators such as chromosomal aberrations (CA), levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde - MDA), and antioxidant enzymes- including glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) - were analyzed in cells exposed to 2 Gy gamma radiation, with or without S. nigra pretreatment. These measurements were conducted using ELISA assays and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The results showed that pretreatment with S. nigra at 4 µL.mL-1 provided notable protection against 2 Gy radiation, reducing chromosomal aberrations by approximately 27%. Compared to irradiated cells without treatment, those pretreated with S. nigra exhibited significantly lower MDA levels and reduced ROS/RNS production (p<0.05). Additionally, the pretreatment helped maintain significantly higher levels of the antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, GPx-1, and GSH (p<0.05). In conclusion, S. nigra extract pretreated lymphocyte cells helped activate anti-cytotoxic and radioprotective mechanisms, effectively reducing oxidative stress caused by radiation exposure.
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