Abstract

Hydroethanolic extract from leaves of Globularia alypum L. (HEGA), Globulariaceae, was screened for its content on total polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins. Its antioxidant activity was also assessed in chemical and biological systems. Analysis of the antioxidant compounds reveals that the HEGA contains high amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins. Besides, it shows a significant antioxidant activity. When tested in HeLa cells, the extract exerts an antiproliferative effect. The concentration leading to a 50% inhibition was estimated at 1.53 mg/ml. The pretreatment of HeLa cells with non cytotoxic concentration of the leaf extract protects them from Fe²⁺ and hydrogen peroxide induced oxidative stress. A good protection against lipid peroxidation was obtained and evidenced by a decrease in the level of two lipid peroxidation (LPO) products, Malodialdehyde (MDA) and conjugated dienes (CD). Besides, a decrease in catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities was obtained. This suggests a recovery of the oxidative balance in the treated cells.

Key words: Globularia alypum, oxidative stress, cell culture, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase.

Abbreviation

DM, Dry matter; DPPH, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl; FCS, foetal calf serum; GAE, gallic acid equivalent; HEGA, hydroethanolic extract of Globularia alypum;MDA, malodialdehyde; GA, Globularia alypum; PBS, phosphate buffer saline; ROS,reactive oxygen species; SOD, superoxide dismutase; TBA, thiobarbuturic acid; TBARs, thiobarbuturic acid reactive species; TEAC, trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity; TEP,1,1,3,3-tetraethoxypropane.