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In vitro Toxicity and in vivo Immunomodulatory Effects of Flavokawain A and Flavokawain B in Balb/C Mice.

Abstract
Flavokawains are chalcones that can be found in the root extracts of the kava-kava (Piper methysticum) plant. Flavokawain A and flavokawain B are known to possess potential anti-inflammation and anti-cancer activities. Nevertheless, the effects of both these compounds on the normal function of the host have not been studied. There is a need to find agents that can enhance the functionality of the immune system without disturbing the homeostatic balance. This study aimed to determine the toxicity and immunomodulatory effects of flavokawain A and flavokawain B on Balb/c mice. Several assays were conducted, the MTT viability assay, cytokine detection (IL-2 and TNF-α), immunophenotyping of important immune markers, serum biochemical analysis and detection of nitric oxide levels. Based on our results, flavokawain A and B did not cause mortality and all mice were observed normal after the treatment period. Both flavokawains stimulated splenocyte proliferation, the secretion of IL-2 and TNF-α and raised the population of T cell subsets without significantly altering the level of several serum biochemical parameters. Overall, flavokawain A and B could serve as potential immune-modulator drugs without causing any toxicity, however further in vivo evidence is needed.
AuthorsNadiah Abu, Nurul Elyani Mohameda, Nirosha Tangarajoo, Swee Keong Yeap, M Nadeem Akhtar, Mohd Puad Abdullah, Abdul Rahman Omar, Noorjahan Banu Alitheen
JournalNatural product communications (Nat Prod Commun) Vol. 10 Issue 7 Pg. 1199-202 (Jul 2015) ISSN: 1934-578X [Print] United States
PMID26411010 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
Chemical References
  • Flavonoids
  • Immunologic Factors
  • flavokawain A
  • flavokawain B
  • Chalcone
Topics
  • Animals
  • Chalcone (analogs & derivatives, pharmacology)
  • Flavonoids (pharmacology)
  • Immunologic Factors (pharmacology)
  • Kava (chemistry)
  • Male
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Spleen (drug effects)
  • Toxicity Tests

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