Potential neuroprotective effect of herbal extracts (NHA56) on hydrogen peroxide-induced SH-SY5Y cell lines

Oxidative stress has contributed a lot towards neurodegenerative diseases such as the Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. One of the main factors of oxidative stress is reactive oxygen species (ROS). This research aimed to determine both the possible neurotoxic and neuroprotective effects of herbal extracts (designated as NHA56). This tablet-form medicine was claimed to be effective against muscle and joint pains and being commercialized without the certificate from Ministry of Health (KKM). In concern of that, this research was conducted, using SH-SY5Y cell lines induced with 100 μM hydrogen peroxide. Ranges of herbal extracts concentrations between 100 ng/ml to 100 mg/ml were used to test for the neurotoxicity and neuroprotection of NHA56 herbal extracts. Results were determined using MTS Cell Proliferation Assay. Results obtained suggesting that NHA56 was not toxic to the cells and also possessed neuroprotective effect towards the hydrogen peroxide-induced neuronal cells. At concentration of 100 ng/ml, the herbal extracts showed the most significant effect of neuroprotective activity. Therefore, further research is the best for better understanding of the mechanisms behind its neuroprotective effect.