Effects of Crocin Down-Regulation on Enzymatic Antioxidant Profile in C2C12 Cells

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Free radicals are produced by cell normal metabolism in normal physiological conditions such as the process of cellular respiration, which is scavenged by enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems. Intake of antioxidants from food sources has always been considered in nutrition research. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate antioxidant effects of crocin on the expression profile of genes involved in the enzymatic antioxidant systems in muscle cells. Materials & Methods: After culturing and several passages, C2C12 muscle cells were differentiated into myotube cells and treated with various concentrations of crocin (10, 25, 50 and 100 μM) for 24 h. Gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (SOD1, SOD2, Gpx1 and catalase) was assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Crocin significantly decreased expression of SOD2, Gpx1 and catalase genes ( p <0.05) with no effects on expression of SOD1 gene. Conclusion: Findings of this study showed that receiving exogenous antioxidants such as crocin could possibly decrease needs of expression of enzymatic antioxidant genes through strengthening non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems. However, further studies are needed to verify the results.