Myrmecodia platytyrea tuber aqueous extract exacerbates neuroinflammation

Abstract

Background: Myrmecodia platytyrea, a member of Rubiaceae, has been traditionally used to treat inflammation-related diseases, including cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. However, its potential in managing neurodegenerative disorders remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of M. platytyrea tuber aqueous extract (MPAE).

Methods: The cytotoxicity effect on astrocytes was assessed using the MTT assay. The effect of MPAE (0.025–0.5 mg/mL) on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) were evaluated in Fe₂SO₄-, H₂O₂-,and LPS-stimulated astrocyte cell lines.

Results: MPAE was found to be non-cytotoxic to astrocytes, with no significant protective effect against Fe₂SO₄-, H₂O₂-, or LPS-induced stress. Instead, MPAE increased astrocyte cell death, as well as ROS and cytokine levels, in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusion: Although MPAE is non-cytotoxic to astrocytes, its potential to exacerbate neuroinflammation in vitro raises concerns about its use, particularly among ageing individuals who consume this plant to manage inflammatory conditions. These findings highlight the need for caution and emphasise the importance of further research to evaluate its safety and efficacy before advocating for its medicinal use, especially for neurodegenerative disease therapy.

Keywords: Astrocytes, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, pro-oxidant, Myrmecodia platytyrea