title: In vitro Toxicity and in vivo Immunomodulatory Effects of Flavokawain A and Flavokawain B in Balb/C Mice.
abstract: Flavokawains are chalcones that can be found in the root extracts of the kava-kava (Piper methysticum) plant. Flavokawain A and flavokawain B are known to possess potential anti-inflammation and anti-cancer activities. Nevertheless, the effects of both these compounds on the normal function of the host have not been studied. There is a need to find agents that can enhance the functionality of the immune system without disturbing the homeostatic balance. This study aimed to determine the toxicity and immunomodulatory effects of flavokawain A and flavokawain B on Balb/c mice. Several assays were conducted, the MTT viability assay, cytokine detection (IL-2 and TNF-α), immunophenotyping of important immune markers, serum biochemical analysis and detection of nitric oxide levels. Based on our results, flavokawain A and B did not cause mortality and all mice were observed normal after the treatment period. Both flavokawains stimulated splenocyte proliferation, the secretion of IL-2 and TNF-α and raised the population of T cell subsets without significantly altering the level of several serum biochemical parameters. Overall, flavokawain A and B could serve as potential immune-modulator drugs without causing any toxicity, however further in vivo evidence is needed.
authors.forename: Nadiah
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Abu
authors.forename: Nurul Elyani
authors.initials: NE
authors.lastname: Mohameda
authors.forename: Nirosha
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Tangarajoo
authors.forename: Swee Keong
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Yeap
authors.forename: M Nadeem
authors.initials: MN
authors.lastname: Akhtar
authors.forename: Mohd Puad
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Abdullah
authors.forename: Abdul Rahman
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Omar
authors.forename: Noorjahan Banu
authors.initials: NB
authors.lastname: Alitheen
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002599:Chalcone / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000494:pharmacology; D005419:Flavonoids / Q000494:pharmacology*; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D020901:Kava / Q000737:chemistry*; D008297:Male; D008807:Mice, Inbred BALB C; D013154:Spleen / Q000187:drug effects*; D018675:Toxicity Tests
chemical_list: D005419:Flavonoids; D007155:Immunologic Factors; C500809:flavokawain A; C452039:flavokawain B; D002599:Chalcone