Integrated Characterization and Mechanistic In Vitro Assessment of Hepatoprotective and Wound-Repair Potential of Picrorhiza Kurroa in Experimental Models

Background: Picrorhiza kurroa has long been employed in traditional medicine for liver ailments and skin-related
disorders; however, integrated in vitro evidence combining pharmacognostic standardisation with mechanistic
bioactivity evaluation remains limited.
Methods: The rhizomes of P. kurroa were subjected to comprehensive pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and
phytochemical characterisation. A hydroethanolic extract was evaluated for hepatoprotective activity using tert-
butyl hydroperoxide–induced oxidative stress in HepG2 cells, while wound-healing potential was assessed
through fibroblast migration (scratch assay) and collagen synthesis in L929 cells. Antioxidant status, enzyme
leakage, cell viability, and extracellular matrix–related parameters were quantified using standard in vitro assays.
Results: The extract exhibited high phenolic and flavonoid content and demonstrated significant cytoprotection
against oxidative hepatic injury by restoring cell viability, reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species, and
normalising alanine and aspartate aminotransferase leakage. In fibroblast cultures, the extract markedly enhanced
cell migration and collagen synthesis in a concentration-dependent manner.
Conclusion: The integrated in vitro findings substantiated the hepatoprotective and wound-healing potential of
P. kurroa, supporting its traditional use and highlighting its promise as a standardised phytopharmaceutical
candidate for further translational development.
Keywords: Picrorhiza Kurroa; Hepatoprotective Activity; Wound Healing; In Vitro Models; Pharmacognostic
Standardisation; Phytochemicals