Gallic Acid Content and Antioxidant Activity of Pomegranate Peel Ethanol Extract

Ethanol extract of Pomegranate peel is proven to have the ability to inhibit the proliferation of cervical cancer HeLa cells. It was reported that the extract contains ellagic acid, gallic acid, and punicalagin which are identified as major effectors of antitumor activity. Based on the previous statement, the examination on the extract would be carried out by identifying one of the above compounds namely gallic acid. Antioxidant activity can influence cancer cell proliferation, therefore, it will be determined in the extract. This study was performed in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory and Central Laboratory Universitas Padjadjaran period of September-December 2019. Gallic acid concentration was measured by using a high-performance liquid chromatography method (HPLC) and antioxidant activity was measured by using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The extract contained gallic acid of 616.97 mg/kg and had an antioxidant activity of IC50 6.1 mu g/mL. Based on its activity, gallic acid has cytotoxic and antitumor effects which are generated by its ability to modulate antioxidant/pro-oxidant balance and inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS). High activity of antioxidant from the extract is also caused by the existence of gallic acid, which is known as a strong antioxidant. Antioxidants can protect normal cells by lowering ROS levels so that it can protect cells from damages. Therefore, both parameters can be used as parts of markers found in pomegranate peel extract which has activity in inhibiting HeLa cell proliferation.