Cell Proliferation and Migration in Human Skin Fibroblasts Induced by Moringa oleifera

Cell proliferation and migration can be triggered by an injury where fibroblasts play a vital role in the repair processes. Extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam., Moringaceae, containing bioactive substances, have been used for healing of both wounds and burns. The objective of this study was to promote the proliferation and cellular migration of fibroblasts with a methanolic extract of M. oleifera leaves, obtained by sonication. Additionally, the bioactive constituents were dereplicated by high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The effect of leaves methanolic extract on cell proliferation and migration (wound closure) in a human skin fibroblast cell line was assessed. At a low concentration (0.01 µg/ml), the extract promoted a significant increased rate of cell proliferation and migration. Flavonols and flavone glycosides were identified as the main group of compounds which contributed to this biological activity. The methanolic extract from M. oleifera leaves can have a positive effect on the processes of proliferation and migration during wound healing. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].