In Vitro Antioxidant and Antiradical Activity of Rutan, a Polyphenolic Extract from the Tannic Sumach (Rhus coriaria L.) Leaves

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the in vitro antioxidant and antiradical activities of Rutan, a polyphenolic extract derived from the leaves of Rhus coriaria L. (tannic sumach), and assess its protective effects on mitochondria and potential cardioprotective mechanisms. Methods: The antiradical activity was measured using the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) free radical assay. The mitochondrial lipid peroxidation (LPO) was induced in rat liver homogenates, and mitochondrial swelling was used to assess the effect of Rutan on the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Additionally, the activity of the ATP-dependent potassium channel (mitoKATP) and creatine kinase (a cardiomarker) were evaluated. Results and Discussion: Rutan exhibited high antiradical activity, significantly reducing the optical density of DPPH and demonstrating dose-dependent inhibition of lipid peroxidation in mitochondrial membranes. It was shown to inhibit mitochondrial swelling induced by Ca2+ ions, thereby protecting the mitochondria by regulating the mPTP. Moreover, Rutan activated mitoKATP channels in a dose-dependent manner and reduced creatine kinase activity, indicating potential cardioprotective effects. The study highlighted Rutan’s effective antioxidant properties and its ability to protect mitochondria from oxidative damage. Conclusions: Rutan is a potent antioxidant that acts by transferring hydrogen to free radicals, terminating the lipid peroxidation chain reaction. It also exerts a protective effect on mitochondria, regulates mPTP, and exhibits cardioprotective properties, making it a promising agent for preventing oxidative stress-related diseases.