Olive Leaf Extract as a Natural By-Product Modulates Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage in Healthy Human Cells

Gulnihal Sisman

doi:10.64086/SusWel.2026.30

Gulnihal Sisman, Ayfer Şendül, Abdurrahim Koçyiğit

Year : 2026
Vol : 4
Issue : 1
Page : 1-11

DOI : 10.64086/SusWel.2026.30

Background: Oxidative stress–induced DNA damage plays a central role in the development of chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and age-related pathologies, which collectively impose a substantial burden on public health systems and societal welfare. Preventive health strategies based on sustainable, low-cost, and naturally derived bioactive compounds are therefore of growing interest. Olive leaf extract (OLE), an agricultural by-product rich in polyphenols, represents a promising candidate in this context. Methods: This in vitro study evaluated the concentration-dependent effects of OLE on cell viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and hydrogen peroxide–induced oxidative DNA damage in a healthy human skin fibroblast cell line (CCD-1072Sk). Oxidative DNA damage was assessed by measuring 8-hydroxyguanosine levels. Results: OLE exhibited a dual, concentration-dependent biological effect. At low concentrations (50–300 μg/mL), OLE promoted cell proliferation and significantly reduced intracellular ROS levels, demonstrating antioxidant activity. In contrast, higher concentrations (>400 μg/mL) induced a pro-oxidant response and cytotoxicity, with an IC₅₀ value of 632 μg/mL. Importantly, pretreatment with non-toxic antioxidant concentrations of OLE markedly attenuated hydrogen peroxide–induced oxidative DNA damage, as evidenced by significantly reduced 8-hydroxyguanosine levels. Conclusion: These findings highlight the dual antioxidant and pro-oxidant nature of olive leaf extract and emphasize the importance of dose optimization in preventive health applications. By demonstrating the genoprotective potential of a sustainable agricultural by-product at safe concentrations, this study supports the integration of evidence-based natural compounds into preventive health strategies aimed at reducing chronic disease burden.

Cite this Article As : Şişman, G., & Şendül, A., & Koçyiğit, A. (2026). Olive leaf extract as a natural by-product modulates oxidative stress and DNA damage in healthy human cells. Sustainable Welfare, 4(1), 1-11.

Description : Yazarların hiçbiri, bu makalede bahsedilen herhangi bir ürün, aygıt veya ilaç ile ilgili maddi çıkar ilişkisine sahip değildir. Araştırma, herhangi bir dış organizasyon tarafından desteklenmedi.Yazarlar çalışmanın birincil verilerine tam erişim izni vermek ve derginin talep ettiği takdirde verileri incelemesine izin vermeyi kabul etmektedirler. None of the authors, any product mentioned in this article, does not have a material interest in the device or drug. Research, not supported by any external organization. grant full access to the primary data and, if requested by the magazine they agree to allow the examination of data.

Olive Leaf Extract as a Natural By-Product Modulates Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage in Healthy Human Cells, Research Article,
2026, Vol. 4 (1)

Received : 02.01.2026, Accepted : 30.03.2026 , Published Online : 30.06.2026