Bittergourd (Momordica charantia) scavenges free radicals by enhancing the expression of superoxide dismutase in in vitro models of diabetes and cancer

Abstract

The free radical scavenging activity of the bittergourd extract (Momordica charantia) and its effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was investigated. Although its anti-hyperglycemic effects have been thoroughly studied, its effects against hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress have not been systematically assessed. The oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay quantified the antioxidant capacity of the extract, while the ROS scavenging ability in hyperglycemia-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells and HeLa cells was investigated. The SOD assay was also carried out. The extract was observed to have reduced ROS in a dose-dependent manner. The stimulation of SOD activity was also dose dependent. The low ORAC value of the extract indicated the absence of antioxidant compounds, which could directly quench ROS. Instead, the extract had stimulated the SOD expression, thereby quenching the ROS. The extract was observed to be beneficial for diseases that are associated with free radical-induced oxidative damage.