Effect of Particle Size on Physical Properties, Dissolution, In Vitro Antioxidant Activity, and In Vivo Hepatoprotective Properties of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg Powders

This study investigated the impact of particle size on the physical properties, dissolution, antioxidant activity, and hepatoprotective properties of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum Diels et Gilg (TDG) powders. It was found that smaller particle sizes, such as TDG micro powders (TDG-MP), exhibited higher dissolution rates and stronger antioxidant activity, with EC₅₀ values of 0.10 mg/mL compared to 0.82 mg/mL for coarse powders (TDG-CP). Additionally, TDG-FP and TDG-MP groups showed significant improvements in liver health markers, including decreased AST and ALT activities and increased SOD, CAT, and GSH activities, along with reduced liver cell inflammation and degeneration. The study concludes that reducing TDG powder particle size enhances its physicochemical and biological properties, making it a promising candidate for clinical applications.