Evaluation of in vitro and in vivo anti-arthritic potential of Berberis calliobotrys

Abstract

<p class="Abstract">The present study was commenced to evaluate the anti-arthritic effect of 70% methanol extract and <em>n</em>-butanol and aqueous fractions of <em>Berberis calliobotrys</em> using both <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo</em> arthritis models. Extract and fractions were investigated<em> in vitro</em> for inhibition of protein (bovine serum and egg albumin) denaturation and human red blood cell membrane stabilization. <em>In vivo</em> anti-arthritic activity of extract and fractions at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg was assessed using turpentine oil and formaldehyde-induced arthritis, while, 200 mg/kg dose was evaluated against complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced arthritis. <em>B. calliobotrys</em> produced significant (p&lt;0.001) dose dependent inhibition of protein denaturation and human red blood cell membrane stabilization. In turpentine oil, formaldehyde and complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced arthritis models,<em> B. calliobotrys</em> significantly (p&lt;0.001) reduced joint and paw swelling. <em>B. calliobotrys</em> markedly improved body weight, hematology profile, radiological and histopathological parameters in complete Freund’s adjuvant model. It could be concluded that <em>B. calliobotrys</em> holds anti-arthritic potential, supporting its traditional use in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.</p><br /><p> </p>