Effect of Anthocyanin‐Rich New Zealand Blackcurrant on Tumour Necrosis Factor‐α–Induced Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1 Release in Airway Epithelial Cells: A Preliminary Study

ABSTRACT Asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory disease affecting millions worldwide. Its prevalence is increasing, with a substantial economic burden projected by 2050. Airway remodelling and inflammation are central to its pathogenesis. Plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) plays a key role by promoting extracellular matrix accumulation and fibrosis. Anthocyanins have strong antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. However, their effects on airway remodelling have not yet been studied. This study investigated the anti‐inflammatory potential of New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) anthocyanins in BEAS‐2B bronchial epithelial cells. Viability was assessed using the Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay, which revealed significant cytotoxicity at concentrations above 50 μg/mL; therefore, 50 μg/mL was selected for further analysis. Cells pretreated with NZBC anthocyanins prior to tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) stimulation showed a nonsignificant reduction in PAI‐1 levels as quantified by ELISA. These findings suggest a potential protective effect against the pro‐fibrotic state as adjuncts in asthma management. However, these observations are preliminary, nonsignificant trends and require extensive validation in more complex biological systems before any clinical implications can be established.