In vitro and in vivo immunomodulatory activity of aqueous extract of Clerodendrum serratum L. roots

The aqueous extract of Clerodendrum serratum Linn (CSAQ) roots has been investigated for its immunomodulatory activity. The phytochemical screening revealed presence of D-mannitol, stigma sterols, three triterpenoids/ oleionolic acid, queretaric acid and cerratagenic acid. The CSAQ was examined for the ability to induce secretory and cellular responses in murine peritoneal macrophages. Macrophages treated with extract exhibited increased acid phosphatase and myeloperoxidase activity as well as significant increase in the production of nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and O₂. Hence, in vivo studies were carried to confirm the immunomodulatory activity of CSAQ in mice. Administration of CSAQ at doses of 100 and 200mg/kg p.o. significantly increased in total leukocyte count and in weight of spleen indicating an uplift of innate immunity. It has significantly increased carbon clearance index and ovalbumin induced delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions. It also produced a significant increase serum globulin content and specific antibody titer against ovalbumin. Treatment with CSAQ increased the number of bone marrow cells positive for nonspecific esterase and peroxidase activity In conclusion CSAQ has shown to stimulate both innate and adaptive immune response either through stimulation of macrophages or through stimulating the release of factors that are involved in proliferation of bone marrow cells.

References: 1. Choi, E.M., Hwang, J.K. (2002), Fitoterapia 73: 629–637. 2. Kim, K.I., Shin K.S. et al. (2001), Biosci. Biotechnol. Biochem. 65: 2369–2377.