The endemic Greek wines Χinomavro, Agiorgitiko, Αssyrtiko, and Malagouzia exert beneficial effects on human cells by upregulating the antioxidant defense mechanisms

The aim of this study was to evaluate the redox-related effects of extracts from four emblematic Greek wines – Xinomavro, Agiorgitiko, Assyrtiko, and Malagouzia. Their impact on cell viability and redox homeostasis was examined in HepG2, EA.hy926, and MKN45 cells. All extracts showed similar cytotoxic thresholds in EA.hy926 and MKN45 cells, while in HepG2 cells Xinomavro and Agiorgitiko wine extracts displayed lower thresholds than Assyrtiko and Malagouzia. Regarding redox modulation, Agiorgitiko enhanced antioxidant defenses in all cell lines and reduced lipid peroxidation in MKN45 cells. Xinomavro increased cellular antioxidant arsenal and mitigated lipid and protein oxidation. Assyrtiko and Malagouzia predominantly attenuated oxidative damage across all cell lines, with Assyrtiko further elevating antioxidant activity in EA.hy926 and MKN45 cells. Agiorgitiko and Malagouzia downregulated Nrf2 gene expression in EA.hy926 cells. Overall, these findings suggest that Greek wine extracts can beneficially modulate redox balance and represent promising sources of bioactive antioxidant compounds. • Greek wine extracts were examined in cell models for effects on redox homeostasis. • Wine extracts boosted antioxidant defense and protected against oxidative damage. • Red wine extracts showed greater efficacy, linked to their higher polyphenol content. • Xinomavro wine extract may protect against oxidative stress-related conditions.