In Vitro Cytotoxic Activity of African Plants: A Review

Exploring Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, Enzyme Inhibitory and Cytotoxic Properties of Glaucium acutidentatum Hausskn. & Bornm. from Turkey Flora: A Novel Source of Bioactive Agents to Design Functional Applications

The present study was performed to determine the chemical constituents, cytotoxicity, antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities of the aerial parts of Glaucium acutidentatum Hausskn. and Bornm. (family Papaveraceae). Methanolic and aqueous extracts were prepared by maceration, homogenizer-assisted extraction (HAE) and infusion. Results showed that the highest total phenolic and flavonoids contents were obtained from the methanol extracts obtained by HAE (53.22 ± 0.10 mg GAE/g) and maceration (30.28 ± 0.51 mg RE/g), respectively. The aporphine, beznyltetrahydroisoquinoline, and protopine types of Glaucium alkaloids have been tentatively identified. Among them, glaucine was identified in all extracts. Flavonoids, phenolic acids, coumarins, organic acids and fatty acids were also detected. Methanolic extract obtained using the HAE method displayed the highest anti-DPPH (41.42 ± 0.62 mg TE/g), total antioxidant (1.20 ± 0.17 mmol TE/g), Cu2+ (113.55 ± 6.44 mg TE/g), and Fe3+ (74.52 ± 4.74 mg TE/g) reducing properties. The aqueous extracts obtained by infusion and HAE methods exerted the best anti-ABTS (103.59 ± 1.49 mg TE/g) and chelating (19.81 ± 0.05 mg EDTAE/g) activities, respectively. Methanolic extract from HAE recorded the highest acetylcholinesterase (2.55 ± 0.10 mg GALAE/g) and α-amylase (0.51 ± 0.02 mmol ACAE/g) inhibition activities, while that obtained by maceration showed the best butyrylcholinesterase (3.76 ± 0.31 mg GALAE/g) inhibition activity. Both extracts revealed the best tyrosinase inhibitory activity (25.15 ± 1.00 and 26.79 ± 2.36 mg KAE/g, p ≥ 0.05). G. acutidentatum maceration-derived aqueous extract showed selective anticancer activity against cells originating from human hypopharyngeal carcinoma. In conclusion, these findings indicated that G. acutidentatum is a promising source of alkaloids and phenolic compounds for variable pharmaceutical formulations.

Anti-metastatic Effect of Heliotropium bacciferum on MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cell Line

Background Heliotropium bacciferum, often known as wild heliotrope or wild quailplant, is a flowering plant from the borage family. This study examines the anti-metastatic impact of H. bacciferum on Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) breast cancer cells and its ability to disrupt signaling pathways. Aim To explore the anti-metastatic effect of H. bacciferum on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. Materials and methods For this research, MCF-7 breast cancer cells were used. Cells were cultured and subjected to 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, as well as gene expression analysis for glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β), wingless-related integration site 2 (Wnt2), and β-catenin. The plant extract was tested to determine if it successfully blocked the signalling pathway or not.  Results The MTT test was performed to study the cytotoxic impact of H. bacciferum. At an increasing concentration of 100 μg/mL, the extract inhibited growth by 55%, whereas at 150 μg/mL, it inhibited growth by 52.5%. Maximum inhibition was seen at 150 μg/mL. H. bacciferum suppressed the GSK3β and Wnt2 signaling pathways in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines, acting as an anti-metastatic and anticancer agent. The heliotrine compound in H. bacciferum showed high binding energy to metastatic targets such as GSK3β, Wnt2, and β-catenin. Moreover, chemical absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties also support the study. Conclusion In this study, we can infer that H. bacciferum has a favourable anticancer impact on MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines and may be utilised as an anticancer drug against breast cancer cells. It can also be further evaluated for different breast cancers and cell lines.

Phytochemically analysed extract of Ageratina adenophora (Sprengel) R.M.King & H. Rob. initiates caspase 3-dependant apoptosis in colorectal cancer cell: A synergistic approach with chemotherapeutic drugs

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ageratina adenophora (Sprengel) R.M.King & H.Rob. has been used as traditional indigenous medicine all across the globe for its diverse therapeutic applications such as anticancer, analgesic, antipyretic, thermogenic, antiseptic, antimicrobial as well as astringent. The various ethnic groups of India use plant parts to treat cuts and wounds, venomous insect bites, skin lesions, blisters, scabies and other skin irritations, gastritis and indigestion problems, cough, stomach ache and dysentery. The Portuguese traditionally extract the juice from the plant and use it for cancer, diabetes, liver disorder, gallbladder and stomach ailments. Nigerian healers use different parts of the plant to treat diabetes, fever and inflammation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study is to investigate the cytotoxic potential of A. adenophora hydroalcoholic leaves extract (AHL) on Colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines (HCT-116, HCT-15 and HT-29), synergistic potential with chemotherapeutic drugs 5FU and Cisplatin as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, based on the sample collected from Mao district of Manipur, India. Identification of bioactive phytocompounds in AHL was also performed by HRLCMS.

METHODS

The AHL was evaluated for its cytotoxic as well as antiproliferative activities by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, clonogenic and cell migration assays. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were quantified by Folin-ciocalteu and Aluminium chloride assays respectively. Caspase 3 activation was evaluated using Caspase-3 Assay Kit. Apoptosis detection by flow cytometry was carried out using annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis detection kit. The apoptotic cells were also visualized by Giemsa and 4',6-Diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining. The intracellular Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was also evaluated using fluorescent probe 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein di-acetate (H2DCFDA) in flow cytometry. The combination effects of AHL with chemotherapeutic drugs 5FU and Cisplatin were also evaluated. The identification of phytochemical constituents of AHL were analysed by HR-LCMS.

RESULTS

The AHL induced cytotoxic activity significantly in HCT-116 with IC50 of 65.65 ± 2.10 μg/mL, but non-cancerous cell HeK-293 was least cytotoxic. Colony formation and cell migration were inhibited in a dose and time dependent manner. The cell morphology upon AHL treatment was significantly altered with apoptotic features. The extract was rich in total phenolic (82.09 ± 0.35mgGAE/g) and total flavonoid (58.31 ± 0.55 mgQAE/g) contents. AHL induced apoptosis as detected by AnnexinV/PI, via activation of caspase 3 and elevated production of Reactive oxygen species (ROS). AHL in combination with 5FU and Cisplatin acts synergistically and potentiates the therapeutic properties of the extract. Sesquiterpenes, phenolic as well as flavonoid derivatives with anticancer properties were detected in AHL by HRLCMS, and these phytoconstituents may be attributed for anticancer property of AHL.

CONCLUSION

The present study evaluates the effectiveness of AHL against Colorectal cancer cell lines. AHL is cytotoxic and induces apoptosis in HCT-116 cells by caspase 3 activation and increased ROS production that can be attributed to sesquiterpenoids. Thus, the plant A. adenophora has therapeutic potential for Colorectal cancer and can be further exploited for developing anticancer drug.

Melinjo Seeds (Gnetum gnemon L.) Antioxidant Activity and Cytotoxic Effects on MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells: A Study Based on Tracing of Resveratrol Compound

Introduction

Breast cancer is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide. One of the polyphenols, namely, resveratrol, has been proven to have anticancer activity. Melinjo seeds which contain resveratrol need to be tested for their potential as an anti-breast cancer agent. This study aims to determine the antioxidant activity and cytotoxic effect of melinjo seeds based on solvent variations and resveratrol tracing.

Methods

Extraction of melinjo seeds was performed using the soxhletation method. Antioxidant test was performed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil method. The in vitro cytotoxic test was carried out using the microtetrazolium method. Cytotoxic test was carried out on MCF-7 breast cancer cells using a concentration range of melinjo seeds between 31,25 and 1000 μg/mL. Antioxidant and anticancer potentials are expressed in inhibitory concentration (IC)50 values. Resveratrol was traced using preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (Prep-HPLC).

Results

Melinjo seed ethanol extract provided the largest total phenolics (126,154 ± 0,865 mg GAE/g sample) and total flavonoids (44,576 ± 0,611 mg QE/g sample) among all solvent fractions. The antioxidant activity of melinjo seeds from ethanol extract, n-hexane fraction, ethyl acetate fraction, and ethanol fraction was 263,307 ppm, 317,595 ppm, 160,878 ppm, and 181,159 ppm, respectively. The ethyl acetate fraction of melinjo seeds showed the strongest cytotoxic effect (94.6 μg/mL) among all extracts and solvent fractions. Prep-HPLC showed that the ethanol extract of melinjo seeds contained resveratrol, while the ethanol and ethyl acetate fractions of melinjo seeds were thought to contain resveratrol derivatives.

Conclusion

The antioxidant activity of melinjo seeds showed a cytotoxic effect on MCF-7 cells, which varied based on solvent polarity and total phenolic and total flavonoid. The ethyl acetate fraction which is thought to contain resveratrol derivatives provides the most potent antioxidant activity and cytotoxic effect. These results indicate that melinjo seeds containing resveratrol and its derivatives have the potential for anticancer of the breast. Further studies are still needed in determining the structure of resveratrol compounds and their derivatives to ensure their biological activity and mechanism of action.

Comparative analysis of silver-nanoparticles and whey-encapsulated particles from olive leaf water extracts: Characteristics and biological activity

Nanotechnology applications have been employed to improve the stability of bioactive components and drug delivery. Natural-based extracts, especially olive leaf extracts, have been associated with the green economy not only as recycled agri-waste but also in the prevention and treatment of various non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The aim of this work was to provide a comparison between the characteristics, biological activity, and gene expression of water extract of olive leaves (OLE), green synthesized OLE silver nanoparticles (OL/Ag-NPs), and OLE whey protein capsules (OL/WPNs) of the two olive varieties, Tofahy and Shemlali. The particles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared. The bioactive compounds of the preparations were evaluated for their antioxidant activity and anticancer effect on HCT-116 colorectal cells as well as for their regulatory effects on cytochrome C oxidase (Cox1) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) genes. (OL/Ag-NPs) were found to be smaller than (OL/WPNs) with sizes of (37.46±1.85 and 44.86±1.62 nm) and (227.20±2.43 and 553.02±3.60 nm) for Tofahy and Shemlali, respectively. SEM showed that Shemlali (OL/Ag-NPs) had the least aggregation due to their highest Ƹ-potential (-31.76 ± 0.87 mV). The preparations were relatively nontoxic to Vero cells (IC50 = 151.94-789.25 μg/mL), while they were cytotoxic to HCT-116 colorectal cells (IC50 = 77.54-320.64 μg/mL). Shemlali and Tofahy OLE and Tofahy OL/Ag-NPs had a higher selectivity index (2.97-7.08 μg/mL) than doxorubicin (2.36 μg/mL), indicating promising anticancer activity. Moreover, Shemlali preparations regulated the expression of Cox1 (up-regulation) and TNF-α (down-regulation) on HCT-116 cells, revealing their efficiency in suppressing the expression of genes that promote cancer cell proliferation. (OL/Ag-NPs) from Tofahy and Shemlali were found to be more stable, effective, and safe than (OL/WPNs). Consequently, OL/Ag-NPs, especially Tofahy, are the best and safest nanoscale particles that can be safely used in food and pharmaceutical applications.

Nanoemulsion-Based Orodispersible Film Formulation of Guava Leaf Oil for Inhibition of Oral Cancer Cells

Among natural sources, guava leaf oil (GLO) has emerged as a potential anticancer agent. However, its limited water solubility poses a significant challenge for its use. Oil-in-water nanoemulsions are used to address the limitation of water solubility of GLO prior to its incorporation into orodipersible films. Nanoemulsions containing GLO:virgin coconut oil (VCO) at a ratio of 50:50 to 70:30 presented a small droplet size of approximately 50 nm and a relatively low zeta potential. GLO:VCO at a ratio of 70:30 was selected for incorporation into sodium alginate film at various concentrations ranging from 1% to 30% w/w. Tensile strength and elongation at break relied on the concentration of nanoemulsions as well as the internal structure of films. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that GLO was compatible with sodium alginate. Film containing 2% w/w of nanoemulsions (2G_ODF) exhibited effective in vitro antioral cancer activity, with an IC50 of 62.49 ± 6.22 mg/mL; furthermore, its anticancer activity showed no significant difference after storage at 25 °C for 1 year. Moreover, 2G_ODF at IC60 arrested colony formation and cell invasion. There is also evidence that cell death occurred via apoptosis, as indicated by nuclear fragmentation and positive Annexin-V staining. These findings highlight the potential of orodispersible films containing GLO nanoemulsions as a prospective oral anticancer agent.

Comparison of Phytochemical Composition and Untargeted Metabolomic Analysis of an Extract from Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Mill.) I. I. Johnst and Porophyllum ruderale (Jacq.) Cass. and Biological Cytotoxic and Antiproliferative Activity In Vitro

Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (CA) and Porophyllum ruderale (PR) are representative edible plants that are a traditional food source in Mexico. This research aimed to analyze the phytochemical composition and untargeted metabolomics analysis of CA and PR and evaluate their antiproliferative effect in vitro. The phytochemical composition (UPLC-DAD-QToF/MS-ESI) identified up to 38 polyphenols and selected organic acids that were clustered by the untargeted metabolomics in functional activities linked to indolizidines, pyridines, and organic acids. Compared with PR, CA displayed a higher reduction in the metabolic activity of human SW480 colon adenocarcinoma cells (LC50: 10.65 mg/mL), and both extracts increased the total apoptotic cells and arrested cell cycle at G0/G1 phase. PR increased mRNA Apc gene expression, whereas both extracts reduced mRNA Kras expression. Rutin/epigallocatechin gallate displayed the highest affinity to APC and K-RAS proteins in silico. Further research is needed to experiment on other cell lines. Results suggested that CA and PR are polyphenol-rich plant sources exhibiting antiproliferative effects in vitro.

Biological Activities and Chemical Profiles of Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi Extracts

In this study, the leaves of Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi were consecutively macerated with hexane, chloroform, and methanol. These extracts were used to assess the bioactivities of the plant. The antimicrobial activity was tested against a panel of Gram-positive and -negative pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains using the microdilution method. The cytotoxicity of K. fedtschenkoi extracts was investigated using human-derived macrophage THP-1 cells through the MTT assay. Finally, the anti-inflammatory activity of extracts was studied using the same cell line by measuring the secretion of IL-10 and IL-6. The phytoconstituents of hexane and chloroform extracts were evaluated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). In addition, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to study the phytochemical content of methanol extract. The total flavonoid content (TFC) of methanol extract is also reported. The chemical composition of K. fedtschenkoi extracts was evaluated using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Results revealed that the chloroform extract inhibited the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa at 150 μg/mL. At the same concentration, methanol extract inhibited the growth of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Regarding their cytotoxicity, the three extracts were highly cytotoxic against the tested cell line at IC50 < 3 μg/mL. In addition, the chloroform extract significantly stimulated the secretion of IL-10 at 50 μg/mL (p < 0.01). GC/MS analyses revealed that hexane and chloroform extracts contain fatty acids, sterols, vitamin E, and triterpenes. The HPLC analysis demonstrated that methanol extract was constituted by quercetin and kaempferol derivatives. This is the first report in which the bioactivities and chemical profiles of K. fedtschenkoi are assessed for non-polar and polar extracts.