Hepatotoxicity and colotoxicity in the presence of caffeine and green tea extract

Lilijana L Nicholls

Weight loss supplements are increasing in popularity as a way to accelerate weight loss. Despite limited evidence of efficacy and safety, little understanding of chemical composition and a lack of quality assurance, many individuals believe that, due to their natural origins, these products are safe for consumption. Individuals are likely to use such supplements while also consuming caffeine, which is consumed for a number of social, recreational, cultural and religious reasons. A popular ingredient in herbal weight loss supplements is green tea extract (GTE). The aim of this research is to establish a model in vitro system to examine the liver toxicity of green tea extract and caffeine. This will allow us to investigate the toxicity of GTE and caffeine in combination at a range of concentrations and use the data generated to predict the risk posed to individuals consuming both caffeine and GTE. Human liver and colon carcinoma cells will be cultured using standard growth media, alongside GTE and caffeine. Cells will be seeded into culturing plates and incubated prior to chemical exposure. Following incubation, cells will be exposed to caffeine and GTE at increasing concentrations to assess potential interactions. A microplate reader will be used to measure absorbance using the MTT assay for cell viability. Data will be analysed for significance using t-tests (α = 0.05) to determine the damage caused to liver and colon cells. This research can provide the basis for other researchers to further explore the impact of GTE on the liver and colon, and its interaction with other substances. This project will aid in closing a literature gap regarding the interaction of GTE and caffeine. The unknown interaction between these substances could substantiate a toxicological threat, with risks that are currently not understood, and may be an unexplained factor in liver and colon disease or death. It will also provide an understanding of how these interactions could affect human health allowing practitioners and pathologists to better explain liver and colon damage in unexplained deaths and warn clients of the risks of interactions between these substances. Furthermore, companies will be better equipped to inform customers of the effects of taking herbal substances and consumers will have a greater understanding of the potential risks of consumption of GTE.

Hepatotoxicity and colotoxicity in the presence of caffeine and green tea extract

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