Modulation of inflammatory cytokine expression due to in vitro exposure of Aegle marmelos in chicken splenocytes

Abstract

The global popularity of traditional herbal medicine is on the rise, despite facing disparagement for lack of scientific validation. Many traditional herbal preparations are endorsed for their anti-inflammatory properties. Cytokines, as key regulators of the immune system, can significantly impact immune status. Given the limited understanding of molecular targets and mechanisms, there is a crucial need to scientifically validate the potential of anti-inflammatory herbs at the molecular level. In view of this, Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa, commonly known as ‘Bael’, was investigated for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties using chicken lymphocytes culture system. The study utilized aqueous extract of Aegle marmelos leaves (AME) to assess antioxidative potential through various assays. The calculated maximum non-cytotoxic dose of AME was used for treatment in chicken lymphocytes in vitro, allowing for the examination of transcriptional modulation of selected genes via qRT-PCR. Results showed significant in vitro antioxidant properties of AME across multiple assays. Gene expression analysis revealed notable alterations due to AME exposure, with pro-inflammatory genes being down-regulated and anti-inflammatory genes up-regulated. The study concluded that AME exhibits potent anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory potential, warranting further exploration through appropriate in vivo experiments due to its strong anti-inflammatory activity.