Inhibitory Effect of <i>Cayratia albifolia</i> C. L. Li Extract on LPS-induced Inflammation of RAW264.7 Cells by Regulating the Nrf2/HO-1 Axis

Background Cayratia albifolia C. L. Li (Jiao Mei Gu (JMG)) has potential therapeutic effects in inflammatory diseases. Objectives The primary goal of the research was to focus on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities of C. albifolia and the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these benefits. Materials and Methods To explore the anti-inflammatory abilities of JMG, we employed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and nitric oxide (NO) assay in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophage inflammation model. Furthermore, flow cytometry was employed to assess the antioxidant effects of C. albifolia, and Western blotting was used to reveal the underlying mechanisms. Results Ethyl acetate extract of C. albifolia effectively reduced the release of NO, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and prostaglandin E2 in macrophages. Additionally, it prevented the expression of reactive oxygen species. Mechanistically, the extract may downregulate the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, the nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expression. Conclusion The ethyl acetate extract of C. albifolia demonstrated remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects by modulating the Nrf2/HO-1 axis.