Therapeutic Potential and Dose-Response Correlation of Argyreia acuta Lour. Extract in Oxidative Stress and Gastric Mucosal Protection

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like indomethacin can cause gastric mucosal injury through oxidative stress and immune imbalance. This study evaluated the dose-dependent gastroprotective, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of ethanol extract from Argyreia acuta Lour. leaves (EE-AC) in a murine model of indomethacin-induced gastric damage. Mice were treated with extract (100, 200, or 300 mg/kg) for seven days following ulcer induction. The A. acuta leaf extract (EE-AC) significantly reduced ulcer scores and gastric acidity, while increasing pH and healing rates. It also enhanced antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, GR), total antioxidant capacity, and reduced MDA and H2O2 levels. Immune parameters improved, with decreased levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, and enhanced phagocytic responses. Strong dose-response correlations (|r| > 0.95, p < 0.05) were observed across all markers. These findings support the therapeutic potential of EE-AC as a multi-target natural agent for gastric protection, warranting further preclinical and clinical validation.