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Neem Leaf Bioactives: Novel Breakthrough in Sustainable Anti-Inflammatory Treatment

AJAS · 2025 Biomedical and Health Sciences (inferred)

Arjun Sharma · Kentucky Academy of Science

Overview

Chronic inflammation is a leading cause of morbidity worldwide, complicating conditions such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and autoimmune disorders. Current anti-inflammatory treatments are unhealthy, costly, and unsustainable for long-term use, exacerbating the need for safer, more accessible, and eco-friendly alternatives. Consequently, there is increasing interest in investigating natural plant compounds, yet the anti-inflammatory potential of Azadirachta indica (Neem) remains underexplored. This project aimed to discover novel anti-inflammatory effects of bioactive compounds from Neem leaves on neutrophil and macrophage function to eventually develop an effective natural medication. To validate the therapeutic properties of Neem, a methanolic leaf extract was prepared and tested for toxicity and downregulation of inflammatory cell function. The toxicity assessment revealed no necrosis in either cell type, and Flow Cytometry analysis showed enhanced inflammatory-site clearance. Additionally, the extract significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species production (icROS), pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-8, IL-1β, CXCL-1), and degranulation in neutrophils. In macrophages, lipopolysaccharide-induced cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β) was downregulated, and efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils was increased. Building on these promising findings, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis identified three key compounds in the Neem extract: quercetin (flavonoid), nimbolide (limonoid), and nimbin (terpenoid). Each was tested individually and in combination to assess their anti-inflammatory effects and potential synergistic interactions. Quercetin exhibited strong antioxidant activity, significantly reducing icROS levels, while nimbolide and nimbin inhibited pro-inflammatory responses. When combined, these compounds enhanced each other's effects and increased the efficacy of steroids, suggesting the potential for creating targeted, cost-effective, and sustainable treatments or supplements tailored to specific inflammatory diseases.

Competition history

  • AJAS 2025 Category not listed

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Source: AAAS Annual Meeting (Confex) / American Junior Academy of Science

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