In vitro Hepatoprotective Effect of Drymaria cordata Against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Hepatotoxicity in HepG2 Cell Line

Background: Medicinal plants have historically played a crucial role in healthcare, serving as the basis for many modern drugs. Among these, Drymaria cordata (L.) Willd. ex Schult., a small herbaceous plant of the Caryophyllaceae family, has garnered attention for its medicinal properties. This study investigates the hepatoprotective potential of its ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction of Drymaria cordata (L.) Willd. ex Schult. against lipopolysaccharide-induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. Materials and Methods: The in vitro hepatoprotective properties of ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction of Drymaria cordata (L.) Willd. ex Schult. were evaluated by measuring cell viability; activities of Superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, Catalase and Malondialdehyde, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and Alkaline phosphatase levels. Results: The results demonstrated that both ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction significantly restored Superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, Catalase and Malondialdehyde, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, Alkaline phosphatase levels, while also preserving cell viability. Notably, the ethyl acetate fraction exhibited a stronger effect in lowering oxidative stress parameters, indicating its superior role in cellular antioxidant defense. Additionally, the study evaluated the phosphorylation status of Protein Kinase C through Sandwich ELISA, revealing a potential regulatory mechanism. Conclusion: The findings highlight that the ethyl acetate fraction of Drymaria cordata (L.) Willd. ex Schult. may serve as a promising natural hepatoprotective, antioxidant agent alternative for managing conditions associated with Protein Kinase C activation and inflammation. Its potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties suggest that Drymaria cordata (L.) Willd. ex Schult. could be developed as a cost-effective therapeutic option.