Immunomodulatory effects of Premna tomentosa (L. Verbenaceae) extract in J 779 macrophage cell cultures under chromate (VI)-induced immunosuppression.

OBJECTIVE

In the present study, the immunomodulatory effects of Premna tomentosa extract against chromate (VI)-induced toxicity was assessed in J 779 macrophage cell line.

METHODS

The cells were analyzed for cytotoxicity, phagocytosis, oxidant burst, antioxidant status, and cell proliferation.

RESULTS

Chromate treatment resulted in a significant increase in cytotoxicity and free radical production. Furthermore, there is a significant decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels and glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx). There was an appreciable decrease in cell proliferation and phagocytosis by macrophages in the presence of chromate. However, pretreatment of the cells with P. tomentosa extract (500 microg concentration), 30 minutes prior to chromate (VI) treatment resulted in a significant inhibition of chromate-induced cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species production. The extract also restored the antioxidant status, cell proliferation, and phagocytosis similar to that of control cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The results confirm the cytoprotective and immunomodulatory effects of the leaves of P. tomentosa and its possible usage in immunosuppressed conditions.