L-Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is a natural product that is a potent reducing agent and antioxidant. L-Ascorbic acid functions in fighting bacterial infections, in detoxifying reactions, and in the formation of collagen. L-Ascorbic acid is used in the treatment of scurvy.

METHODS: Human osteosarcoma cells MG-63 were treated with L-Ascorbic acid (62.5-1000 µM) for 3-24 h. Cell viability was measured by XTT Assay.
RESULTS: Cell viability was consistently >95% when cells were treated with L-Ascorbic acid at concentrations of 0-250 µM. When higher concentrations were used, a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability was observed. [1]
METHODS: Melanoma cells WM1366 were treated with L-Ascorbic acid (5-50 µM) for 24 h. The expression levels of target proteins were measured using Western Blot.
RESULTS: The lowest concentration of L-Ascorbic acid (5 µM) significantly reduced the normoxic expression of HIF-1α protein in human melanoma cell lines. [2]

METHODS: L-Ascorbic acid (1-4.5 g/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to irradiated C57BL/6 mice to detect radioprotective activity.
RESULTS: Administration of 3 g/kg L-Ascorbic acid immediately after exposure significantly increased the survival rate of mice after 7-8 Gy WBI. However, administration of less than 3 g/kg L-Ascorbic acid was ineffective, and 4 g/kg and above was harmful to mice. [3]
METHODS: To investigate the effects on amnesia, L-Ascorbic acid (60-160 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to diazepam, scopolamine, and aging-induced amnesic Swiss mice once daily for 3-8 days.
RESULTS: L-Ascorbic acid improved learning and memory in aging mice, as evidenced by decreased transfer latency and increased descending latency. [4]