Immunomodulatory Effects of Launaea sarmentosa Extract on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppressed Mice
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Abstract
Traditional medicine and herbal extracts offer potential for enhancing immune responses. This study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of Launaea sarmentosa extract in a cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression mouse model, aiming to validate its traditional use and explore its potential as a novel immunotherapeutic adjunct. Swiss mice were divided into six groups, including controls and three L. sarmentosa treatment groups (36, 72, 108 mg/kg). Immunosuppression was induced by cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg) on day 4 of a 7-day treatment. Key immune parameters evaluated included relative organ weights, leukocyte counts, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, serum cytokine levels (IL-4, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IgG), and lymphoid organ histopathology. L. sarmentosa extract significantly ameliorated cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression. Treatment, especially at 108 mg/kg/day, restored relative spleen weight and tended to enhance DTH reactions. The extract significantly elevated IL-4, IL-6, and IgG concentrations, modulating humoral and innate immune responses. Histopathological examination showed marked improvement in lymphoid organ damage, with increased lymphocyte density and restored tissue architecture in both spleen and thymus. While TNF-α and IFN-γ levels showed upward trends, these were not statistically significant. These findings suggest L. sarmentosa possesses potent immunomodulatory effects by protecting lymphoid organs, enhancing cytokine production, and supporting immune responses. Further studies are needed to elucidate its exact mechanisms and identify active compounds.
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