Suppression of inflammation by Baccharis punctulata and Baccharis trimera through modulation of innate and adaptive immune responses

Abstract

Inflammatory processes, involving both innate and adaptive responses, are essential for controlling pathogens and maintaining homeostasis. However, excessive inflammation can cause chronic conditions including autoimmune diseases, atherosclerosis, and cancer. Alternative treatment options for inflammation are crucial, and exploring plants with anti-inflammatory properties holds significance. The genus Baccharis (Asteraceae family) is widespread across the Americas and is traditionally used to treat various disorders, including inflammatory diseases. Several biological activities of Baccharis species have been described; however, their immunomodulatory effects have not been widely evaluated. In this study, we analyzed the immunomodulatory activity of two Baccharis species, Baccharis punctulata, and Baccharis trimera, using an in vitro inflammation model involving monocytic cells and splenocytes to evaluate both innate and adaptive immune responses. Both B. punctulata and B. trimera reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory mediators, including soluble CD14 and pro-inflammatory cytokines, in THP-1 cells. Furthermore, they suppressed nitric oxide (NO) production in splenocytes, demonstrating a dampened innate immune response. In addition, both species attenuated concanavalin A (ConA)-induced splenocyte proliferation, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect on the adaptive immune response. In summary, the extracts demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity, affecting both innate and adaptive immune responses, and underscoring their potential as treatments for inflammatory diseases and sources of anti-inflammatory molecules.