Abstract
CONTEXT: Estragole (EST), a phenylpropanoid found in essential oils, exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. AIMS: This study investigated its potential protective effects against systemic infections in septic C57BL/6 mice. We evaluated leukocyte recruitment, nitric oxide production, bacterial viability in blood, and survival rates. In addition, we assessed its effects on cell viability and phagocytosis in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The effects of EST were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. Leukocyte viability and phagocytic activity were assessed, while sepsis was induced in mice via cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Mice received oral EST (125, 250, or 500 mg/kg), and biological samples were analyzed for immune response markers and survival. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Results are expressed as the mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM). Statistical evaluation was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's post hoc test. Survival rates were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. Differences were considered statistically significant at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Treatment with EST (250 and 500 mg/kg, orally), administered one hour prior to sepsis induction, reduced leukocyte recruitment and nitric oxide production at the infection site, decreased the number of viable bacteria in the blood, and improved survival rates (significantly at 500 mg/kg) after seven days. Furthermore, at non-toxic concentrations (90 µg/mL), EST enhanced the phagocytic activity of neutrophils in vitro. CONCLUSIONS: Estragole demonstrated immunomodulatory and antibacterial effects, strengthening immune responses and reducing mortality in septic C57BL/6 mice.