Protective effect of Hibiscus (sabdariffa Linn.) against H2O2 induced oxidative stress in Cardiomyocytes

Oxidative stress has been highly reported to be participating in the development of cardiac diseases. Studies that have been conducted previously showed that there are antioxidant properties in Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn (HSL). This study focused on examining the likely defensive effects of HSL on H9c2 cardiomyocytes facing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) -induced damage. These cells were pre-treated 24 h with HSL 1 h before exposure to 200 pM H2O2. The cells viability was assessed using 344,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium (MTT) test. Fluorometric methods were used to determine the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. H2O2 substantially reduced the viability of the cell, followed by increased production of ROS and lipid peroxidation and decreased activity of superoxide dismutase. Pre-treatment of HSL has improved cardiomyocyte viability and decreased the production of raised ROS and lipid peroxidation. HSL has also been able to improve the activity of superoxide dismutase. In conclusion, the damage caused by oxidative stress on cardiomyocytes was reduced by the protective factor found in HSL, which can prevent cardiovascular diseases as it acts as a natural cardioprotective agent.