Promotion of cellular differentiation and DNA repair potential in brain cancer cells by Shankhpushpi, (Clitoria ternatea L.) with rasayana properties in vitro

Background

Brain ageing is accompanied by the diminution of neuronal plasticity, which is correlated with the inability to respond to loss of memory, various stress-induced stimuli, and increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders. In the recent past, plant based herbal medicines are of interest over synthetic drugs for therapeutic purposes due to lower side effects. The Indian traditional medicine Ayurveda describes several herbal remedies, such as rasayana (elixirs for rejuvenation), to treat many age-related diseases. Medhya rasayana (brain elixir) is a class of rasayana used for its nootropic functions, such as enhancement of memory and intellect, in addition to promoting normal health. Clitoria ternatea L. is one such plant used in the preparation of medhya rasayana.

Objective

To investigate the neuronal differentiation and DNA repair potential of Shankhpushpi (Clitoria ternatea L.) in neuroblastoma cells.

Materials & methods

The effect of Clitoria ternatea L. on neuronal cell differentiation, DNA repair (base excision repair, comet, γH2AX immunostaining assays), autophagy by cadaverine uptake and mitochondrial functions by fluorescent dye staining through flow cytometry were evaluated.

Results

The results revealed that Clitoria ternatea L. enhanced DNA repair and mitochondrial membrane potential and reduced autophagy and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in IMR-32 neuroblastoma cells. Treatment of IMR-32 neuroblastoma and C6 glioblastoma cells with shankhpushpi induced neuronal differentiation and exhibited markers such as MAP2, Mortalin and GFAP.

Conclusion

Neurobiological pathways and molecular mechanisms influenced by rasayana herb shankhpushpi suggests its therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative diseases.