Cissus hastata (Semperai) adverse anti-inflammatory response via cytokines expression with moderate cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo towards haemorrhoid

Abstract

Cissus hastata (CH) or Semperai, is widely utilised by locals in Malaysia as antitussive, expectorant and flatulence reliever. However, scientific evidence on the pharmaco-active property of CH remains elusive, although previous studies reported the gastro-protective action of another cissus species, Cissus quadrangularis among haemorrhoids patients. Hence this study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory action of CH towards cytokine expression. The in vitro analysis involved Caco-2 cells via cytotoxicity assay of CH crude extract and ELISA of TNF-α and IL-6 expression levels. The in vivo analysis involved haemorrhoid-induced animal model (Wistar rats). Result of Cell WST-8 assay for CH showed high range of IC50 values (>30 μg/mL), indicating moderate to high cytotoxicity. The ELISA revealed increased expression of both TNF-α and IL-6 in CH post-treated Caco-2 cells, suggestive of non-inhibitory response against the cytokines. Nevertheless, better appearance of tissue morphology was observed in the haemorrhoid-Wistar rat group that received 200 mg/kg of CH, indicated by the absence of necrotic cells and presence of inflammatory cells. In conclusion, the in vitro results provide preliminary evidence on the intricate biological action of CH at the cellular level while the in vivo result clearly disclosed the beneficial outcome of CH as treatment for haemorrhoid.