Moringa Oleifera Enhances the Cell Proliferation and Neural Differentiation of B65 and PC12 Cells

Background: Neurodegenerative diseases, marked by progressive symptoms, currently lack definitive, side-effect-free treatments. Research continues for effective therapies. Moringa oleifera extract (MOE), rich in phytochemicals like vitamins, carotenoids, and flavonoids, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects through antioxidant activity and inflammation reduction. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Moringa extract on the proliferation and cell differentiation. Materials and Methods: MOE was extracted from plant leaves using the Soxhlet method, and its antioxidant properties were confirmed through the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power assay. Cell proliferation was assessed using an MTT assay, while cell differentiation was evaluated through Real-time PCR and immunocytochemistry (ICC). Results: MOE significantly increased cell proliferation in both cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Real-time PCR results indicated that MOE upregulated the expression of the gap-43 gene, which encodes a protein, involved in regulating actin dynamics in axons and promoting axonal regeneration, as well as the nf200 gene, which encodes an intermediate filament protein in neurons. Furthermore, ICC results demonstrated that higher doses of MOE were associated with increased levels of the nf200 protein in both cell lines. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that MOE improves cell proliferation and facilitates neuronal differentiation. These effects, attributed to its high antioxidant content, suggest that MOE may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for neurodegenerative disorders.