Zea mays leaf extracts protects primary chick embryo fibroblast cells from apoptosis induced by hydrogen peroxide in vitro

Abstract

Background

It is known that excessive oxidative damage, when unchecked, can result in cell death. Therefore, in the present study, the extent of cell death induced by H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in primary cultured chick embryo fibroblasts and its protection by Zea mays leaf extracts was followed.

Methods

Various apoptosis related parameters like cell viability, morphological changes, nuclear changes and apoptotic index were characterized. SRB and MTT assays were used to quantify the extent of cell death in the group exposed to H₂O₂, plant extracts and their combination.

Results and discussion

The treatment with hydrogen peroxide exhibited cytotoxicity in the primary chick embryo fibroblasts cells. The number of apoptotic cells increased in the oxidant treated groups. When administered along with H₂O₂, the leaf extracts resulted in a significantly decreased number of apoptotic cells. The maximum inhibition of H₂O₂-induced apoptosis was exhibited by the methanolic extract followed by the aqueous and chloroform extracts.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the Zea mays leaves can render protection to chick embryo fibroblasts against H₂O₂-induced cell death.