Hepatoprotective Properties of Acacia nilotica Bark Extract against H₂O₂ Induced Oxidative Damage in Normal Liver (LO2) and Cancer (HepG2) Cells

Background

Liver cancer's severity has prompted interest in herbal remedies for hepatotoxicity and the disease. Acacia nilotica (Vachellia nilotica), valued for its traditional medicinal properties, particularly in its aerial components, is being investigated for its hepatoprotective and anti-cancer effects. However, research on A. nilotica bark extracts and their mechanisms of action is limited.

Materials and Methods

The study aimed to determine the Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), and antioxidant properties of A. nilotica bark extract using biochemical assays. Additionally, it examined the protective effects of A. nilotica bark extract on normal Liver Cells (LO2) and its toxicity against liver cancer cells (HepG2) using cell culture techniques.

Results

The extract showed significant antioxidant properties (EC₅₀-16.34), with a total phenolic content of 159.98±9.91 mg GAE/DW and a flavonoid content of 16.93 mg QE/g dry weight. It exhibited moderate toxicity towards HepG2 cells at concentrations >100 μg/mL but was non-toxic to LO2 cells. Moreover, it prevented oxidative damage in LO2 cells induced by H₂O₂.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of A. nilotica bark extract in liver cancer and hepatotoxicity treatment, warranting further clinical investigation.