Curative properties of Buchanania lanzan: As evaluated by its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and DNA protective properties

Abstract

Background: Parts of B. lanzan is reported to have several medicinal properties. Methods: Buchanania lanzan bark was assessed for its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and DNA protective properties. Results: Soxhlet solvent extracts exhibited DPPH scavenging capacity to a varied extent. Methanolic extract could scavenge ABTS radicals with IC 50 of 0.25 mg/ml. The anti-inflammatory properties were elucidated by its capacity to inhibit 15-lipoxygenase and human cyclooxygenase-2. As a measure of anti-ageing effect, anti-hyaluronidase and anti-elastase activity was measured. The extract significantly inhibited both 15-LOX and human COX-2 in a dose-dependent manner. The extract abolished elastase activity and inhibited hyaluronidase as observed in zymogram by substrate-gel assay. In addition, the methanolic extract could prevent damage to DNA from the hydroxyl radicals produced during Fenton reaction. Further, an absence of hemolytic activity for this extract suggests the non-toxic nature. Conclusion: Studies on unexplored medicinal plants may lead to identification of potential drug candidates.