Andean berry (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) juice in combination with Aspirin modulated anti-inflammatory markers on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages

Abstract

V. meridionale Swartz is an underutilized Andean Berry that has been linked to several health benefits potentially derived from its anti-inflammatory effects. This research aimed to evaluate the impact of Andean Berry Juice (ABJ) combined with Aspirin in the modulation of anti-inflammatory markers from LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. The chemical characterization of ABJ showed a high content of polyphenols, mainly gallic acid (659–75 μg/g) and cyanidin chloride (418.61 μg/mL). Compared to LPS-stimulated macrophages, ABJ, Aspirin, and its combination reduced NO and ROS production (3.26–42.55 and 17.59–65.68%, respectively). In comparison, the half inhibitory concentration of NO reduction (IC50) was found at 7.69% v/v (ABJ) and 24.48 mM (Aspirin). Compared to the pro-inflammatory control (LPS), ABJ reduced IL-1β, MCP-1, and GCSF; Aspirin decreased IL1R1, MCP-1, GMCSF, GCSF, and TNF-α; and the ABJ + Aspirin treatment reduced IL1R, GMCSF, and CXCL10. The in silico interaction of cytokines and the prediction of potential binding interactions suggested CCR1, CCR5, and NF-kB modulation. These results showed the anti-inflammatory potential of underutilized South American berries and their co-adjuvant effect with known drugs such as Aspirin in the resolution of inflammatory-derived conditions. This is the first report of the anti-inflammatory effects of V. meridionale Swartz juice in combination with Aspirin on LPS-challenged RAW 264.7 macrophages.