Neuroprotective Potential of Bacopa monnieri: Modulation of Inflammatory Signals

CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets. 2023;22(3):441-451. doi: 10.2174/1871527321666220111124047.

Abstract

Background: To date, much evidence has shown the increased interest in natural molecules and traditional herbal medicine as alternative bioactive compounds to fight many inflammatory conditions, both in relation to immunomodulation and in terms of their wound healing potential. Bacopa monnieri is a herb that is used in the Ayurvedic medicine tradition for its anti-inflammatory activity.

Objective: In this study, we evaluate the anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties of the Bacopa monnieri extract (BME) in vitro model of neuroinflammation.

Methods: Neuronal SH-SY5Y cells were stimulated with TNFα and IFNγ and used to evaluate the effect of BME on cell viability, cytotoxicity, cytokine gene expression, and healing rate.

Results: Our results showed that BME protects against the Okadaic acid-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Moreover, in TNFα and IFNγ primed cells, BME reduces IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS, mitigates the mechanical trauma injury-induced damage, and accelerates the healing of wounds.

Conclusion: This study indicates that BME might become a promising candidate for the treatment of neuroinflammation.

Keywords: Neuroprotection; cyclooxygenase; cytokines; inducible nitric oxide synthase; inflammation; metalloproteinases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Bacopa* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Neuroblastoma*
  • Neuroinflammatory Diseases
  • Neuroprotective Agents* / pharmacology
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / metabolism

Substances

  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • Plant Extracts
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Neuroprotective Agents

Grants and funding