Semi-Preparative RP-HPLC isolation and the pro-inflammatory, cytotoxicity, and erythrolytic study of saponin from the soapbark tree

The need for safe application of herbal therapy has become one of the goals to achieve global health. Prior studies showing the safe or beneficial application of the extract from the soapbark tree, Quillaja saponaria Molina have also highlighted the presence of numerous saponin constituents. This study aimed to further identify and bio-evaluate a pure saponin fraction from the aqueous extract of the bark of this tree. Applying Reverse Phase High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, a pure fraction previously identified and reported in the literature was isolated. Using standard procedures the erythrolytic, cytotoxicity and proinflammatory activities were evaluated. Findings indicated a low lytic activity and significant (p ≤ 0.05) dose-dependent interleukin (IL)- 1β induction by the pure saponin fraction. Obtained data indicated the immunogenic activity of the saponin fraction with a safe proclivity for lysis. Data from this study suggests the contribution of the saponin fraction to the noted benefit of the herbal extract and its possible application as an anti-tumorigenic agent.