Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Vaccination remains one of the most effective interventions for infectious disease control, though variability in immune responses limits protective potential in certain populations. Natural bioactive compounds, particularly plant-derived polyphenols, have been recognized for their immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties that may enhance vaccine effectiveness. This study investigated the effects of standardized pomegranate (Punica granatum) extract in modulating vaccine-induced immune responses. BALB/c mice were divided into four groups: vaccine alone, vaccine with low-dose extract, vaccine with high-dose extract, and extract-only control. Animals were orally supplemented with Pomegranate extract for 14 days before and after vaccination, and immune parameters were assessed at day 14 and day 35. Results demonstrated that extract co-administration significantly enhanced antibody titers (IgG, IgA, IgM), with the high-dose group showing the greatest increase. Splenocyte proliferation and Th1-related cytokines (IL-2, IFN-γ) were markedly elevated, while TNF-α levels rose modestly, indicating effective immune potentiation without excessive inflammation. Furthermore, oxidative stress was reduced, as evidenced by decreased malondialdehyde levels and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, Catalase). Statistical analysis confirmed strong effect sizes across humoral, cellular, and oxidative endpoints. Collectively, these findings support the hypothesis that pomegranate extract functions as a natural immunopotentiator, augmenting vaccine-induced protection through synergistic modulation of immune and antioxidant pathways. The results provide a compelling foundation for further clinical research into the development of pomegranate-based nutraceuticals or adjuvants to improve vaccine outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations.