Citrus Aurantifolia Ethanol Extract As A Modulator Of TNF- α In Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis Rat Model

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by immune dysregulation and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). The ethanol extract of Citrus aurantifolia contains bioactive compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Citrus aurantifolia ethanol extract on TNF-α levels in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model.Methods: This experimental study used 25 mice randomly assigned to five groups: normal control (K1), imiquimod-induced psoriasis group (K2), and three treatment groups receiving imiquimod along with 1%, 3%, or 5% Citrus aurantifolia ethanol extract (K3, K4, K5). Psoriasis was induced by daily topical application of imiquimod, and the extract was administered topically. Serum TNF-α levels were measured using ELISA. Results: TNF-α levels were significantly higher in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis group compared to the normal control (p < 0.05). Administration of Citrus aurantifolia ethanol extract significantly reduced TNF-α levels in K3, K4, and K5 groups compared to the imiquimod-only group (p < 0.05), with the most pronounced reduction observed in the 5% extract group. Conclusion: Citrus aurantifolia ethanol extract demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory potential by reducing TNF-α levels in the imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model. These findings suggest that Citrus aurantifolia could be a promising natural therapeutic candidate for psoriasis. However, further studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans, clarify the underlying mechanisms, and establish optimal dosing strategies.