Immunomodulatory Effects of Epipremnum aureum Leaf Extract: Insight into Innate and Adaptive Immunity Models

This study investigates the immunomodulatory potential of Epipremnum aureum leaf extract (EAE) through a series of in vivo and in vitro models targeting both innate and adaptive immune responses. Phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic extract revealed the presence of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and glycosides, with quercetin identified as a major active compound. The immunostimulatory effects of EAE were assessed at oral doses of 100, 200, and 400mg/kg. EAE significantly enhanced macrophage-mediated phagocytic activity, suppressed carrageenan-induced paw edema, and increased hemagglutination antibody titers, indicating potent effects on both cellular and humoral branches of immunity (P<0.05). The extract also favorably modulated cell-mediated immunity, reflected by improved delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses and an increase in thymus and spleen immune indices. Furthermore, EAE effectively countered cyclophosphamide-induced neutropenia by restoring total leukocyte counts, suggesting a role in supporting hematopoietic recovery. The presence of quercetin is proposed to play a crucial role in immune modulation by promoting macrophage activation, regulating cytokine production, and enhancing B- and T-cell responses. Notably, the immunomodulatory efficacy of EAE was found to be comparable to levamisole, a standard immunostimulant drug. These findings support the therapeutic potential of Epipremnum aureum as a natural immunomodulator and lay the groundwork for future studies aimed at the development of herbal formulations for immune-related disorders. Further mechanistic studies and clinical validation are warranted to fully elucidate the potential of EAE in immunopharmacology.