Abstract

ObjectivesMangifera indica L. (mango) stem bark aqueous extract (MSBE) that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, can be obtained in Cuba. It is rich in polyphenols, where mangiferin is the main component. In this study, we have tested DNA damage and protection effects of MSBE and mangiferin on primary human lymphocytes and lymphoblastoid cells. Material and methodsCell suspensions were incubated with the products (50-1000g/ml) for experiments on damage induction, and evaluation of any potential protective effects (5-100g/ml) for 60min at 37 degrees C. Irradiation was performed using a -ray source, absorbed dose 5Gy. At the end of exposure, DNA damage, protection and repair processes were evaluated using the comet assay. ResultsMSBE (100-1000g/ml) induced DNA damage in a concentration dependent manner in both cell types tested, primary cells being more sensitive. Mangiferin (200g/ml) only induced light DNA damage at higher concentrations. DNA repair capacity was not affected after MSBE or mangiferin exposure. On the other hand, MSBE (25 and 50g/ml) and mangiferin (5-25 ug/ml) protected against gamma radiation-induced DNA damage. ConclusionsThese results show MSBE has protector or harmful effects on DNA in vitro depending on the experimental conditions, which suggest that the extract could be acting as an antioxidant or pro-oxidant product. Mangiferin was involved in protective effects of the extract.