Gymnema sylvestre as a Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Biofilm Agent Against Anaerobic Infections: An In Vitro Study

This study evaluates the antimicrobial activity of the glycolic extract of <i>G. sylvestre</i> against anaerobic pathogens, along with its cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant effects, and phytochemical composition. Phytochemical analysis was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, while the antioxidant effect was assessed through a DPPH assay. Antimicrobial action was tested on planktonic cultures and biofilms of <i>Porphyromonas gingivalis</i>, <i>Porphyromonas endodontalis</i>, <i>Parvimonas micra</i>, and <i>Fusobacterium nucleatum</i>. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using mouse macrophages (RAW 264.7), rat fibroblasts (L929), and human keratinocytes (HaCaT). Anti-inflammatory effects were measured by an immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA) on RAW 264.7 cells. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The extract demonstrated a reduction of over 95% in biofilms of <i>P. gingivalis</i>, <i>P. micra</i>, and <i>F. nucleatum</i> within 5 min of treatment. Cell viability (HaCaT) remained above 80%. Antioxidant activity showed an EC50 of 353.43 µg/mL, achieving a 50% reduction in free radicals. A significant decrease in TNF-α (a pro-inflammatory cytokine) and an increase in IL-10 (an anti-inflammatory cytokine) were observed. In conclusion, the extract of <i>G. sylvestre</i> exhibits promising potential as a therapeutic agent for treating anaerobic infections, inflammation, and oxidative stress.