Polyphenols play an important role in preventing degenerative diseases, protecting cells from free radicals, and inhibiting angiogenesis. The intake of polyphenols activates enzymes for detoxification, therefore, inducing defenses within toxic environment. These phenolic compounds are found abundantly within food sources, including teas, and are important for cellular protection. The goal of this study is to extract six Peruvian mate teas, characterize the effect of the extracts on mammalian HeLa cells, and identify compounds responsible for that effect. Extraction of the teas with different solvents, such as water, ethanol, and acetone was performed using a Soxhlet apparatus. The extracts were then subjected to chloroform extraction to remove excess caffeine and pigments. Finally, ethyl acetate was used to extract the potential polyphenols present in solution. All samples were then concentrated, filtered and re-suspended in the proper solvent/buffer for evaluation. Every extract was further analyzed by Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometer (GCMS) prior to their addition to HeLa cells. A MTT assay was then performed to test the effects of the tea extracts on cells’ viability. Our findings showed that two out of the six teas had an effect on mammalian cell viability. These two extracts inhibited cell growth, and were therefore further examined and fractioned by flash column chromatography. Our results show that three total fractions from two teas lowered HeLa cell viability as the concentration of the fraction increased. A compound table provided by the GC-MS showed the presence of polyphenol derivatives and PAHs in the effective fractions from these tea extracts. Further analysis is currently being conducted to identify the active compounds responsible for this effect. Additional cellular studies such as apoptosis and cytotoxicity are also under going to determine the molecular mode of action of those compounds.

Extraction and fractionation of polyphenols from Peruvian teas and their effect on mammalian cell viability

255th National Meeting (2018)

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