In vitro anticancer effect of acanthus ilicifolius on hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Abstract

The leading cause of liver cancer is viral infection with hepatitis B and C virus. Liver cancer usually forms inflammation and cirrhosis caused by these viruses. The aim of the study was to investigate anti-liver cancer potential of Acanthus ilicifolius. Powdered leave material was extracted with ethanol and evaluated their anticancer potential on hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2). Treatment with ethanolic extract of A. ilicofolius (AIEE) posses significant changes in cytotoxicity, apoptosis and caspase 3 expressions in HepG2 cells. The results indicated 100 μg mL-1 of AIEE reduced the viability of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner, elevated lactase dehydrogenase and observed condensed chromatin, crooked vesicle shaped membrane in apoptotic nuclei and dead cells appeared bright orange. The expression of caspase 3 was decreased. This study demonstrates the A. ilicofolius have a potent anticancer source. Further analytical studies will be exploring the active constituents in holy mangrove. © 2014 Academic Journals Inc.