Molecular and immunological activity of Terminalia chebula extracts

Several plant extracts and Ayurvedic formulations were used to treat ailments and such studies were well documented within the recent decades. Even a number of the plants were screened for immunomodulators to revive and rejuvenate the system. The present study is a screening trail for any possible healing activity of Terminalia chebula on IL-2 and IFN-γ levels. The raw and dried fruits of the sample were pulverized finely and extracted with methanol. Following which their aqueous solutions are re extracted with hexane, ester and chloroform to review the possible cytotoxic effects. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophage cells were used throughout the study to assess the effect of extracts on nitric oxide (NO) production using Griess method. Expression of Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were studied by real time PCR quantification alongside estimation of IL-1β and IL-6 cytokine levels using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The present study confirmed the positive effect of the chloroform extract in reducing the NO secretion and also by showing an inhibition within the expression of COX2, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Thus, to conclude T. chebula might be used as anti-inflammatory candidate drug and also be used additionally to the various chemical compounds available within the medical markets.