Bilberry ( Vaccinium myrtillus L.) Extract Antiinflammatory Activity in Rat Macrophage Cell Culture

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract by investigating its antioxidant activity and effects on rat peritoneal macrophage inflammatory responses. The extract's ability to modulate key inflammatory markers such as nitric oxide and TNF-α, along with its predicted molecular interactions and lipoxygenase inhibition, was assessed to elucidate underlying mechanisms. Methods Present study examined in vitro antioxidant and enzyme inhibiting activity of chemically characterized bilberry extract obtained from wild growing ripe fruits. Also, the effects of extract on peritoneal macrophage inflammatory response has been studied in order to potentially reveal the underlining mechanism of action. Results The strong predicted interaction of the extract's main constituents with CD38, a key regulator of redox balance and immune signaling, supported the evaluation of antioxidant activity, macrophage response, and LOX inhibition by the bilberry extract. The extract exhibited strong antioxidant potential in two assays for studying total antioxidant potential and prevention of lipid peroxidation, but showed weak lipoxygenase inhibitory activity. Cells viability following bilberry extract treatment were found not to be affected in concentration up to 120 mg/mL. At the same time macrophages exposed to inflammatory stimulation in the presence of bilberry extract produced less nitric oxide and TNF-α, compared to the control. Conclusion The bilberry extract affects inflammatory response by potentially influencing several molecular targets which could underlay the inflammatory response. This multitarget approach might be the most effective in preventing inflammation without affecting normal body function.