Phytochemical activity of Morinda citrifolia on oxidative stress induced cataract formation in chick lens epithelial cells

DOI: 10.5176/2251-2489_BioTech15.06

Authors: Sudhakar Konada, Dr. R. Satyanarayana, Dr. D. SarvaMangala and Dr. USN Murthy

Abstract: Oxidative stress and many toxic agents can induce apoptosis in lens epithelial cells that lead to cataract formation. The cataract patients may have deficient defence systems against oxidative stress and other agents responsible for cataract formation. This oxidative stress can trigger lens epithelial cell apoptosis, which may initiate cataract development. M.citrifolia fruit juice is rich in antioxidants and many other bioactive compounds. To investigate the involvement of “Divine NONI” in protection against oxidative stress, chick lens epithelial cells were exposed to hydrogen peroxide (100 μM H2O2) over a time course of several hours, with and without pre-treatment of “Divine NONI” and Noni fruit extract (Hexane). Cell Viability, during oxidative stress was determined by a method called MTT Assay method. Our results in the present investigation suggests that Noni juice and extract can preserve physiological functions of chick lens epithelial cells during oxidative stress, which suggests that “Divine NONI” can be effectively used for cataract patients.

Keywords: Oxidative stress, Lens epithelial cells, Cataract formation, Apoptosis, MTT and “Divine NONI”