Activity in MCF-7 estrogen-sensitive breast cancer cells of capsicodendrin from Cinnamosma fragrans

Abstract

Background/Aim: Effect of capsicodendrin on the NF-ĸB pathway was studied in MCF-7 cancer cells. Materials and Methods: The transcription factor assay was used to screen for NF-ĸB activity. The effect on IKKβ, ICAM-1, and caspase-7 were studied using western blot. Caspase-1 was studied using Promega Caspase-Glo® assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected using the fluorescent probe DCFH-DA. The potentiometric dye JC-1 was used to assess mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and the cell cycle was examined using a fluorescence-activated cell sorter. Results: NF-ĸB p65 inhibitory effect was IC50=8.6 μM and cytotoxic activity was IC50=7.5 μM. The upstream IKK and the downstream ICAM-1 were down-regulated. Sub G1-phase population increased to 81% after 12 h of treatment with capsicodendrin (10 μM) and there was no loss of ΔΨM. Conclusion: Increased levels of intracellular ROS promoted activity of caspase-1 and induced cell death in MCF-7 cells. Capsicodendrin may be a future anticancer agent that prevents the progression of metastatic breast cancer.