Study on the Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Gentiana scabra Bunge Extract and Its Mechanism Using Zebrafish and RAW264.7 Cell Models

Abstract

Gentiana scabra Bunge (Gentian) is a traditional medicinal plant valued for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, with historical use in treating atopic dermatitis. Despite its therapeutic reputation, a comprehensive scientific analysis of its constituents is lacking. This study systematically evaluates the anti-inflammatory effects of Gentian extract and explores its molecular mechanisms. We characterized the chemical profile of Gentian extracts using HPLC and assessed their anti-inflammatory activity in zebrafish and cellular models. Gentian extract significantly reduced inflammation, as shown by decreased neutrophil migration in response to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), reduced tail wagging in zebrafish embryos, and alleviated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced edema. It also lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating antioxidant properties, and downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and genes. In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, the extract upregulated IκBα and reduced p65 and STAT3 phosphorylation, inhibiting NF-κB and JAK–STAT pathways. This study is the first to systematically evaluate the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of Gentian extract in zebrafish and RAW264.7 cell models, enhancing its understanding and providing a scientific basis for its application in anti-inflammatory products.