New Zealand Blackcurrant Anthocyanins Attenuate TNF-α-Induced PAI-1 Levels in Airway Epithelial Cells: Implications for Asthma Therapy.

Introduction: Asthma is a chronic, inflammatory respiratory disease affecting millions worldwide, with increasing prevalence and substantial economic impact projected by 2050. Central to asthma pathogenesis are airway remodeling and inflammation, processes in which Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) acts as a major contributor by promoting extracellular matrix accumulation and fibrosis. Anthocyanins exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities; however, their effects on airway remodelling have not been studied to date.

Methods : This study investigated the anti-inflammatory potential of New Zealand Blackcurrant (NZBC) anthocyanins in BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cells. BEAS-2B cells' viability was assessed using the Methyl Thiazolyl Tetrazolium (MTT) assay to determine a non-cytotoxic concentration. Cells were pretreated with NZBC anthocyanins prior to TNF-α stimulation and then PAI-1 levels were quantified using ELISA.

Results: MTT assay revealed significant cytotoxicity at concentrations above 50 µg/mL, confirming 50 µg/mL as a safe dose for further analysis. Pretreatment with NZBC anthocyanins significantly reduced PAI-1 levels in TNF-α–stimulated cells (Control: 28,958 ± 2,485 vs. ACN: 14,360 ± 1,148; n = 3), as measured by ELISA.

Conclusion: These findings suggest a protective effect against the pro-fibrotic state. The outcomes underscore the therapeutic potential of anthocyanins as adjunctive agents in asthma therapy, particularly in targeting oxidative stress and airway remodeling pathways. Further studies are warranted to explore their clinical relevance and therapeutic efficacy.