Molecular Cytocompatibility and Morphomorphometric Analysis of a Sesamum indicum-Rubus idaeus Herbal Gel on 3T3-L1 Fibroblast Architecture

Background

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress lead to tissue damage, resulting in heightened interest in plant-based therapeutics with low toxicity. Sesame and raspberry contain bioactive compounds that are both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. However, little research has been conducted on their combined formulation, particularly regarding cytotoxicity and biocompatibility.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the molecular cytocompatibility and dose-dependent effects of a novel sesame root-raspberry herbal gel on the structural integrity and metabolic activity of 3T3-L1 fibroblast cells.

Materials and Methods

An in vitro laboratory study was conducted over four months (March-June 2025) at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Chennai. Aqueous extracts of sesame root and raspberry were formulated into a bioactive gel. Cytotoxicity was quantified on 3T3-L1 fibroblast cells using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay at varying concentrations (50, 150, 250, 350, and 450 µg/mL). Alterations in cellular morphometry and cytoskeletal arrangements were evaluated using phase-contrast microscopy. Data were expressed as mean±standard deviation. One-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test was used, with p<0.05 considered significant.

Results

Lower concentrations (50-250 µg/mL) demonstrated high cell viability (>90%) with no significant cytotoxicity. At 350 µg/mL, viability remained above 80%, indicating non-cytotoxicity, while 450 µg/mL showed mild cytotoxicity (~71%). Morphological analysis supported these findings, revealing minimal changes at lower concentrations and mild cellular alterations at higher concentrations.

Conclusion

The sesame-raspberry gel exhibits excellent cytocompatibility at lower therapeutic concentrations, suggesting its potential as a safe natural agent for oral and biomedical applications. These findings highlight a dose-dependent interaction with fibroblast architecture, underscoring the importance of concentration optimization for preserving tissue-level homeostasis.