Saikosaponin B2 Protects Against LPS Induced Inflammation In Neuronal Cell Lines

Abstract

This study explores the protective effects of Saikosaponin B2, a triterpenoid extracted from the roots of Radix bupleurum against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation, a common model for studying neurodegenerative diseases. LPS induces strong immune reactions, activating pro-inflammatory cytokines, increases ROS generation, ultimately leading to neuronal damage and loss. We theorized that Saikosaponin B2 holds an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant profile capable of mitigating LPS-induced effects. An in-vitro model was used to determine the extract’s effectiveness in reducing inflammatory gene expression, ROS generation and activation of injury mechanisms. Our results show that Saikosaponin B2 reduces LPS-induced inflammation, signifying its possible utilization as a therapeutic agent against neurodegenerative diseases.