Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting over 18 million people globally, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) in June 2023. It leads to joint inflammation, pain, and progressive tissue damage, influenced by immune responses, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle factors. Current treatments range from Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, such as Tofacitinib and Baricitinib, to phytomedicines, which offer promising alternatives due to their bioactive compounds. Raphanus sativus (radish) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential candidate for RA management.
Objectives: This study aims to formulate and evaluate Raphanus sativus based hydrogels for in-vitro anti-arthritic activity. Objectives include assessing physicochemical properties, skin irritation potential, and efficacy using protein denaturation assays.
Methods: Hydrogels (RSG1, RSG2, and RSG3) were developed using Raphanus sativus leaf juice and carbopol, adjusted to pH 7.4. Stability, spreadability, viscosity, and washability were analyzed. Skin irritation potential was assessed, and protein denaturation assays were conducted using bovine serum albumin (BSA) and egg albumin models, with efficacy compared to Diclofenac sodium.
Results: The hydrogels exhibited stability, favorable physicochemical characteristics, and no skin irritation. Protein denaturation assays demonstrated significant anti-arthritic activity, comparable to Diclofenac sodium. The presence of flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids contributed to efficacy.
Conclusion: The findings support further clinical exploration of Raphanus sativus based formulations as potential phytomedicines for RA management. However, the study is limited to in-vitro assays, and further in-vivo and long-term toxicity evaluations are necessary to confirm safety and efficacy.
Keywords: Apigenin, Arthritis, Denaturation, Luteolin, Raphanus sativus, Transdermal gel, In-vitro study.
