Cytotoxic and immune effects of local sumac on cancer and mice.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Cytotoxicity and some immune cells stimulation effects of local sumac (rhus coraria) on cancer cells and mice
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Ashwaq A. Kadhem
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Cytotoxicity and some immune cells stimulation effects of local sumac (rhus coraria) on cancer cells and mice
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
The study conducted by Ashwaq A. Kadhem and colleagues investigates the cytotoxic effects of sumac extract (Rhus coriaria) on various human cancer cell lines, as well as its immunomodulatory effects on mice. The research highlights the significance of sumac, traditionally recognized for its medicinal properties, as a potential source for anti-cancer treatment. The study encompasses both in vitro experiments with cancerous and normal cell lines and in vivo experiments on mice to assess tissue changes and immune responses to the extract.
2) Cytotoxic Effects of Sumac Extract on Cancer Cells
The research reveals that the ethanol extract of sumac exhibits varying degrees of cytotoxicity against two human cancer cell lines: Hep2 (laryngeal carcinoma) and RD (rhabdomyosarcoma). The study found that treatment with sumac extract resulted in the most significant toxicity against the RD cell line, achieving an inhibition rate of 80.28% at a concentration of 1.953 µg/ml. In contrast, moderate cytotoxicity of 52.64% was observed in Hep2 cells, while minimal toxicity (37.158%) was noted in the normal Rat embryonic fibroblast Ref cell line at the same concentration. This pattern indicates that cancer cells are more susceptible to sumac extract than normal cells, emphasizing its potential use as an anti-cancer agent.
3) Immunomodulatory Effects in Mice
The study extends to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of sumac extract on mice, where different concentrations (0.825, 1.65, and 3.3 mg/kg) were administered daily. The results showed an increase in immune cell stimulation, particularly lymphocytes, across various organs, including the liver, spleen, and small intestine. However, histopathological examination revealed significant tissue changes, including necrosis and structural alterations in the liver, as well as atrophy and immune cell infiltration in the small intestine. These results suggest that while sumac extract may promote immune cell activity, it can also induce adverse tissue effects, necessitating careful consideration of dosage and exposure duration.
4) Phytochemical Composition and Its Implications
Phytochemical analysis confirmed that flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids are the major constituents of the sumac extract. While these compounds are recognized for their antioxidant and anti-cancer properties, the study also highlighted their potential toxicity at high doses, particularly regarding their effects on liver and digestive organs. The observed discrepancies between in vitro and in vivo results suggest that the metabolic processing of these phytochemicals can alter their biological activities, underscoring the importance of dosage in achieving therapeutic effects without causing harm.
5) Conclusion
The findings from this study underscore the dual nature of sumac extract as both a potential therapeutic agent against cancer and a substance that may induce toxicity, particularly in the liver and digestive system. The extracts showed considerable cytotoxic effects on cancer cells while also stimulating immune responses. Nevertheless, the adverse histological changes observed in mouse organs and the complexity of phytochemical interactions illustrate the need for further research to optimize dosing and mitigate toxic effects. Overall, these insights pave the way for future exploration of sumac as a viable option in cancer treatment, balancing efficacy and safety.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the main purpose of the study on sumac extract?
The study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic effects of sumac extract on cancer cell lines and assess its immunomodulatory effects and histological changes in mice.
Which cancer cell lines were tested with sumac extract?
The study tested the effects of sumac extract on two human cancer cell lines: Hep2 (human larynx epidermoid carcinoma) and RD (rhabdomyosarcoma), along with a normal cell line, Ref (rat embryonic fibroblast).
What were the key findings regarding the cytotoxic effects of sumac?
Sumac extract exhibited varying degrees of cytotoxicity, with the highest inhibition rates against RD cells, followed by Hep2 cells, while showing less toxicity to the normal Ref cells.
How did sumac extract affect the immune cells in mice?
The extract stimulated immune cells, particularly mononuclear and lymphocytes, across different organs such as the liver and spleen, indicating its potential immunomodulatory effects.
What histological changes were observed after sumac extract ingestion?
Histological examination revealed necrosis, inflammation, and structural changes in the liver, spleen, and small intestine, which increased with higher doses and longer exposure duration.
What conclusions were drawn about the safety of sumac extract?
The study concluded that while sumac has therapeutic effects, high doses may lead to toxicity, particularly affecting liver function and other organs, thus requiring careful dosage consideration.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Cytotoxic and immune effects of local sumac on cancer and mice.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Line:
In the context of scientific research, a 'line' often refers to a specific lineage of cells or organisms. In the study, different cell lines represent distinct types of cancer and normal cells, allowing researchers to observe the effects of sumac extract on various biological responses and to compare sensitivity to treatments based on genetic or environmental factors.
2) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of polyphenolic compounds found in various plants, known for their antioxidant properties. In the study, flavonoids extracted from sumac were highlighted for their potential antitumor effects and cytotoxicity, suggesting that they may play a significant role in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation while exhibiting selective toxicity.
3) Study (Studying):
A study is a systematic investigation intended to establish facts, develop new theories, or validate existing knowledge. This particular study aimed to assess the cytotoxic effects of sumac extract on cancer cells and evaluate its potential immunomodulatory effects in experimental animals, contributing to the broader understanding of plant-based therapies in cancer treatment.
4) Animal:
In biomedical research, animals are often used as models for human diseases to study biological processes and therapeutics. The study involved administering sumac extract to mice, allowing researchers to observe changes in immune responses and tissue structures, which provides insight into the extract's potential health effects and safety for future therapies.
5) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a class of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The study focused on understanding how sumac extract affects cancer cells, specifically human larynx epidermoid carcinoma and rabdomyosarcoma. Exploring natural compounds for their antitumor activity aids in the search for new, less toxic cancer treatments.
6) Toxicity:
Toxicity generally refers to the degree to which a substance can harm organisms. Understanding the toxicity of sumac extract was essential in this study, with results indicating varied effects on cancerous and non-cancerous cells, contributing to the knowledge of safe therapeutic dosing and potential side effects in treatments.
7) Drug:
A drug is a substance used to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose a disease or condition. The study sought to explore the potential of sumac extract as a therapeutic 'drug' for cancer treatment, emphasizing the need to evaluate both efficacy and safety of natural compounds used in medicinal contexts.
8) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are natural compounds found in plants that can provide health benefits. In this study, phytochemicals from sumac, including flavonoids and tannins, were extracted and assessed for their medicinal properties, contributing to the overall understanding of how dietary sources can influence health and disease outcomes.
9) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. The findings of this study have implications for the development of new medicinal approaches utilizing sumac extract, emphasizing its potential role in complementary and alternative medicine for managing cancer and enhancing immune function.
10) Activity:
'Activity' in a scientific context often refers to the functional effects that a substance exerts on biological systems. The study evaluated the 'activity' of sumac extract against cancer cells, measuring its effectiveness and influence on immune cell stimulation, which are significant for understanding its therapeutic potential.
11) Species:
In biology, a species is a group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring. The study references the species 'Rhus coriaria', the sumac plant, exploring its unique qualities and effects, emphasizing the importance of identifying and classifying plants that may have therapeutic applications.
12) Science (Scientific):
Science is a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge through testable explanations and predictions about the universe. The research reflected in the study utilized scientific methods to investigate the properties of sumac extract, highlighting the role of evidence-based practices in understanding natural therapies and their applications.
13) Table:
In research, a 'table' is a systematic arrangement of data, usually consisting of rows and columns, used to present results clearly. The study included a table documenting the qualitative tests of phytochemicals present in sumac extract, facilitating easier interpretation and comparison of findings.
14) Genu:
Genus (often confused with 'genu') is a taxonomic rank used in the biological classification of living organisms. The genus 'Rhus' includes species such as 'Rhus coriaria', highlighting the taxonomical structure that enables scientists to categorize and study plant characteristics and their potential applications in medicine.
15) Diet:
Diet refers to the sum of food consumed by an individual or organism. The study investigated the dietary intake of sumac extract by mice to assess its health effects, linking the impact of diet on disease prevention and management, particularly in terms of cancer and immune function.
16) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli, often associated with the immune response. The study reported inflammatory changes in tissues following sumac extract administration, suggesting further exploration is necessary to understand how dietary components like sumac can modulate inflammation and its related conditions.
17) Discussion:
The discussion section of a scientific paper critically evaluates the results, contextualizing them within existing knowledge. In this study, the discussion would integrate findings related to sumac's cytotoxicity and immune effects, comparing them to previous research and proposing future directions for investigation.
18) Substance:
A substance is a specific material with distinct physical properties. The study tested the 'substance' of sumac extract to assess its biological activity, focusing on its potential chemotherapeutic effects and the importance of distinguishing between therapeutic benefits and possible adverse effects.
19) Disease:
A disease is an abnormal state affecting the body or function of an organism. The study's focus on cancer illustrates the broader context of investigating natural agents for their potential disease-modifying properties, particularly in seeking alternative or complementary treatment options.
20) Family:
In biological classification, a family is a rank that groups related genera. The study mentions the family Anacardiaceae, to which sumac belongs, indicating the importance of understanding the relationships among species and their collective characteristics, especially for medicinal purposes.
21) Reason:
Reason refers to the basis for a conclusion or belief. In the context of this study, the 'reason' for investigating the effects of sumac extract is to uncover potential therapeutic uses against cancer and to understand the underlying mechanisms of its action on immune cells and tissues.
22) Medium:
A medium, in cell culture, is a nutrient solution that supports the growth of cells in vitro. The study utilized RPMI-1640 medium to cultivate the cancer and normal cell lines, highlighting the importance of proper conditions for conducting cytotoxicity and growth assays.
23) Powder:
Powder refers to a finely ground substance. The study involved extracting compounds from dried sumac fruit powder, emphasizing the processing methods used to isolate bioactive compounds that may exert beneficial effects and influence health outcomes.
24) Death:
Death in biological research can refer to the cessation of life or cellular functions. The study monitored the effects of sumac extract on cell viability and its implications for inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, which is crucial in assessing the extract's potential antitumor activity.
25) Blood:
Blood is the fluid that circulates in the body, carrying nutrients and oxygen. In this study, changes in immune cell populations in organs such as the spleen and liver could indicate alterations in blood parameters and immune function, which are vital in understanding overall health impacts.
26) Male:
Male refers to the sex of organisms that produce small, mobile gametes (sperm). The study used male mice as subjects for experimentation, which may have implications regarding sex-specific responses to treatments and the generalization of results to a broader population, including humans.