ANALYTICAL LETTERS, cilt.1, sa.1, ss.1-10, 2024 (SCI-Expanded)
Free radicals are unstable and are known for an electron deficiency within their chemical structures. This state renders molecules such as DNA, proteins, and various biomolecules susceptible to detrimental interactions, leading to damage. However, this process can be regulated by antioxidants produced naturally on-site or externally through food or herbal supplements. In recent years, interest in researching alternative, natural and safe antioxidants obtained from plant sources has been increasing. Within this context, Cichorium intybus L. has garnered attention for its notable antioxidant content. In our previous study, we determined optimum conditions for ultrasonic-assisted extraction of antioxidant compounds from Cichorium intybus L. using the central composite design-response surface methodology. In this study, the quantitative analysis of phenolic components within the extract, prepared under the optimal conditions, was undertaken employing high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The study’s primary goal is to investigate the impact of the extract derived from Cichorium intybus on the formation of products resulting from oxidative damage to DNA bases by gas chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). For this purpose, different amounts of extract were added to the DNA + Fenton medium. When 25 µL of extract was added, 239.98±5.81 ng of damaged product/mg DNA was found, 233.12±5.63 ng of damaged product/mg DNA was found when 50 µL of extract was added and 165.76±4.58 ng of damaged product/mg DNA was found when 100 µL of extract. This research revealed that Cichorium intybus has potential therapeutic effects on supporting antioxidant defences and reducing oxidative DNA damage.