RESUMEN
The cadmium (Cd) is considered one of the widespread toxic metals in the aquatic and terrestrial environments, which is due to its long half-life, non-degradable characteristic, and toxicity. Aqueous extract of freeze-dried Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae family) leaves was examined for protective effect and antioxidant power against Cd toxicity. The results revealed that Moringa aqueous extract (MAE) has contents of total polyphenols and flavonoids about 30.14 mg GAE/g and 18.35 mg QE/g respectively. Furthermore, phenolic compounds in leaves of Moringa were studied using a high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Results showed that the largest number of phenolic compounds determined in leaves of Moringa belongs to flavonoids. Moreover, biological properties were determined by radical scavenging capacity (DPPH) and ferric-reducing power (FRAP). Cytoprotective effect and antioxidant power of Moringa extract were assessed using the mitochondrial activity testing method (MTT test), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Results indicate that Moringa aqueous extract have a significant (i) proliferative, (ii) antioxidant, and (iii) cytoprotective effect on HCT116 and HEK293 cells against metal toxicity.