Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been long described as a protective agent in experimental models of oxidative stress, inflammation and cancer. Multiple studies also revealed the potential application of high quality saffron byproducts as cheap sources of antioxidants. In this context and in collaboration with the Consortium of L’Aquila Saffron, the aim of the present work was to characterize the phytochemical amd antioxidant profile of water extracts from tepals and anthers, that are usually discarded during saffron harvesting. Tepal and anther extracts were equally tolerated by C2C12 cell line, as evidenced by biocompatibility MTT test. In order to further characterize their quality, we analyzed tepal and anther content of heavy metals, finding a more significant tendency to accumulate lead and cadmium in tepals compared to anthers. Considering this, we explored the pharmacological and toxicological potential of anthers, by evaluating genotoxic and protective effects in multiple cell lines and rat tissues challenged with LPS. Particularly, anther extract did not exert cytostatic, cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in Hs27 cells. Anther extract (10-500 µg/mL) was also able to reduce ROS production in MCF7 and C2C12 cell lines. In the same concentration range, anther extract was also effective on isolated rat peripheral and central tissues, challenged with LPS. In this context, LPS-induced levels of nitrites and malonildialdehyde were reduced by anther extract treatment.

Overall, the observed antioxidant effects suggest the valorization of saffron anthers as source of protective agents against the burden of oxidative stress occurring in inflammatory conditions.