The protective effects of almond milk against hydrogen peroxide damage in Arpe-19 cell line and its biological effects

Increasing evidence from basic and clinical studies indicates that oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Therefore, natural agents with antioxidant properties may serve as promising therapeutic candidates. This study investigated the protective effects of almond milk against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative damage in retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cells and evaluated its biological activities.

Cytotoxicity of shelled and unshelled almond milk was assessed using the MTT assay. Antimicrobial activity was investigated via the disc diffusion method. Total antioxidant capacity and free radical–scavenging activities were determined spectrophotometrically. The proliferative effects of almond milk on Lactobacillus rhamnosus GAA6 and Lactobacillus reuteri ENA31 were evaluated in MRS medium.

H₂O₂ reduced ARPE-19 cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner (25–500 μM), and the concentration causing approximately 50% cytotoxicity was determined as 50 μM. Almond milk significantly enhanced cell viability in ARPE-19 cells treated with H₂O₂, demonstrating a concentration-dependent protective effect. Total antioxidant capacity was measured as 3.52 mmol/L for shelled and 2.04 mmol/L for unshelled almond milk. Neither form exhibited antimicrobial activity against tested pathogens. Both almond milk types promoted the proliferation of probiotic Lactobacillus strains.

Almond milk provides notable protection against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage in ARPE-19 cells and demonstrates prebiotic activity. Owing to its natural origin and biological properties, almond milk has potential as a therapeutic supplement and a functional protective food.