Comparative antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of lignins from different sources

The potential antioxidant activity of industrial lignins obtained from different sources and their potential cytotoxic effect on two immortalized cell lines is studied. In addition the stability of aqueous preparations of these lignins is studied together with the effect on them of ultraviolet irradiation. The lignins studied show a high antioxidant capacity over a range of concentrations that are not harmful to normal human cells. The stability of the lignin solutions when they are exposed to UVA light is confirmed. These findings suggest new uses for lignins in cosmetic and topical medical formulations. This study aims to demonstrate the antioxiclant activity and stability of several lignins from different sources. It assesses their suitability for new commercial applications, mainly in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, by discarding any possible cytotoxic properties. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.