Ácido elágico previne a citotoxicidade induzida por lipopolissacarídeo em cultivo primário de astrócitos

Abstract

Neuroinflammation is a complex mechanism involving the activation of glial cells, such as astrocytes and microglia, in response to brain damage. Astrocyte activation is marked by the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and an increase in oxidative stress. Compounds that modulate the release of these mediators have become promising therapeutic targets. Ellagic acid (EA), a phenolic compound found in many plant sources, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. This study investigated the effect of EA on astrocytes from neonatal rats exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Astrocytes were pre-treated with EA (50, 100, and 200 μM) for 48 hours and then exposed to LPS (1 μg/ml) for three hours. Parameters of cytotoxicity, inflammation, and oxidative stress were evaluated. EA treatment prevented the LPS-induced decrease in cell viability and increase in proliferation. EA (100 μM) prevented the increase in IL-1β and TNF-α gene expression while positively regulating IL-6 and GSK3-β expression. Additionally, EA prevented the LPS-induced increase in reactive oxygen species and nitrites and the reduction in sulfhydryl levels and the enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione S-transferase. These results suggest the therapeutic potential of EA in attenuating the inflammatory response and oxidative stress in astrocytes, providing a basis for future investigations into the glioprotective mechanisms of EA associated with neuroinflammation.