Ocimum sanctum extract's anti-neoplastic effects on cancer and normal cells
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Anti-neoplastic effect of ocimum sanctum methanol extract on colorectal carcinoma, gastric carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma & normal cells
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.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Gaurav Arya, Nilanjana Deb, Piyali Das, Vishal Sharma, Kanika Kisku and Shila Elizabeth Besra
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Anti-neoplastic effect of ocimum sanctum methanol extract on colorectal carcinoma, gastric carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma & normal cells
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20199-15435
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the anti-cancer effects of the methanol extract of Ocimum sanctum (OSME), commonly known as Holy Basil, on various cancer cell lines, including colorectal, gastric, and hepatocellular carcinoma, while assessing its effects on normal cells. The research highlights the plant’s traditional use in Indian medicine and aims to delineate the apoptotic pathways invoked by the extract, thus contributing to the understanding of its potential as a therapeutic agent against cancer.
Apoptotic Mechanisms of OSME
The results from the study revealed that OSME significantly inhibits cell viability of carcinoma cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner, leading to apoptosis, as confirmed through several assays. Notable signs of apoptosis observed included chromatin condensation, nuclear fragmentation, and the formation of apoptotic bodies. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated the presence of apoptotic cells in both early and late stages in treated carcinoma cells, while no apoptosis was observed in normal cells, indicating a selective cytotoxicity of OSME.
Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Alterations
The study also assessed changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in response to OSME treatment. The assay, conducted using the JC-1 staining method, showed a significant shift in fluorescence, indicating a loss of MMP in colorectal and hepatocellular carcinoma cells. This depolarization is an essential trigger for apoptosis, as it leads to the release of cytochrome c, further corroborating the extract's action in inducing programmed cell death in cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
Cell Cycle Arrest Induced by OSME
The research further examined the effects of OSME on cell cycle progression, revealing that treatment leads to cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase in colorectal and hepatoma cancer cells. This finding suggests that OSME not only triggers apoptosis but also inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells, potentially curtailing tumor growth. In contrast, the extract showed no discernible effects on the cell cycle phases of normal cells, reinforcing its selective action on cancerous cells without posing a threat to healthy ones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the methanol extract of Ocimum sanctum exhibits potent anti-neoplastic effects against various cancer cell lines, prominently through mechanisms involving apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. It demonstrates a promising therapeutic potential, particularly for colorectal, gastric, and hepatocellular malignancies, while exhibiting negligible toxicity to normal cells. These findings highlight the value of Ocimum sanctum as a candidate for cancer treatment and point towards the necessity for further mechanistic studies to isolate and understand its active compounds responsible for these effects.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study involving Ocimum sanctum extract?
The study investigates the anti-neoplastic effects of the methanol extract of Ocimum sanctum (OSME) on various cancer cell lines, including colorectal, gastric, and hepatocellular carcinoma, while exploring its apoptotic pathways.
How was the cytotoxicity of OSME measured in the study?
Cytotoxicity was measured using the MTT assay, which assesses cell viability and metabolic activity. Significant reductions in optical density values indicated OSME's cytotoxic nature towards cancer cells in a time and concentration-dependent manner.
What morphological changes indicate apoptosis in cancer cells after OSME treatment?
Apoptotic characteristics such as chromatin condensation, nuclear fragmentation, and the formation of apoptotic bodies were observed in cancer cells treated with OSME, confirming the induction of apoptosis.
Were there any toxic effects of OSME on normal cells?
OSME exhibited insignificant inhibition on normal human kidney (HEK293T) and murine macrophage (RAW264.7) cells, showing no significant cytotoxic or apoptotic effects, suggesting a selective action towards cancer cells.
What role does mitochondrial membrane potential play in assessing cell apoptosis?
The mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) is critical for assessing apoptosis. A significant decrease in Δψm was observed in cancer cells treated with OSME, indicating the release of cytochrome c, a key event in the apoptotic process.
What conclusions were drawn regarding the use of Ocimum sanctum in cancer treatment?
The study concluded that OSME has significant anti-cancer effects against various carcinoma cells with minimal side effects, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent in cancer treatment and the need for further mechanistic studies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ocimum sanctum extract's anti-neoplastic effects on cancer and normal cells”. 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) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a complex group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and the potential to invade other tissues. It encompasses various types, including colorectal, gastric, and hepatocellular carcinoma, all of which are discussed in the research in relation to the effects of Ocimum sanctum extract.
2) Line:
In the context of this study, 'line' refers to the different cell lines used in experiments to assess the anti-cancer effects of Ocimum sanctum. Cell lines such as SW480, HCT116, and HepG2 help in understanding how the extract affects various cancer types and normal cells.
3) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, commonly known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, is a significant medicinal plant in Indian traditional medicine. Its methanol extract is the key focus of the study, being investigated for its potential anti-neoplastic effects against various cancer cell lines while assessing its safety on normal cells.
4) Activity:
Activity in this research context often pertains to the biochemical properties or biological effects exhibited by Ocimum sanctum. The study evaluates the anti-cancer activity, particularly its ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells, demonstrating its potential as a therapeutic agent.
5) Study (Studying):
The term study indicates the comprehensive research conducted to evaluate the effects of Ocimum sanctum on cancer cells. It outlines methodologies used, results obtained, and conclusions drawn regarding the plant's potential as an anti-cancer agent, emphasizing its historical significance in medicine.
6) Death:
In the context of cancer research, death refers to the apoptotic process leading to cell death in cancer cells upon treatment with Ocimum sanctum extract. Understanding how these extracts influence cell death is crucial for evaluating their efficacy as therapeutic agents.
7) Indian:
This term relates to the origin of Ocimum sanctum and the cultural significance it has in India, where it is recognized not only for its medicinal benefits but also for its spiritual and historical importance in Indian society.
8) India:
India is the geographical context for this research, where Ocimum sanctum is traditionally utilized in medicine. The study showcases the scientific investigation into this culturally significant plant, contributing to the broader knowledge of its potential health benefits in combating cancer.
9) Observation:
Observation pertains to the careful monitoring and recording of experimental outcomes, particularly regarding the effect of Ocimum sanctum on various cancer cell lines. It forms a critical part of scientific methodology and helps validate the research findings.
10) Medium:
In this study, medium refers to the cellular growth environment for the cancer and normal cells. Specific media like DMEM and RPMI1640 are used for culturing these cells, essential for evaluating the effects of the methanol extract of Ocimum sanctum.
11) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the field concerning the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, within which the study evaluates the medicinal plant Ocimum sanctum. Its potential applications as a natural remedy underscore the intersection of traditional and modern medical practices.
12) Disease:
Diseases, particularly various forms of cancer addressed in this study, refer to pathological conditions that the research aims to combat using the bioactive components of Ocimum sanctum.
13) Tulsi:
Tulsi is the common name for Ocimum sanctum in India. The plant is revered for its numerous health benefits and is integral to both traditional and modern medicinal practices, particularly for its potential anti-cancer properties highlighted in this research.
14) Drug:
The term drug is often associated with any substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. In this study, the focus is on the potential of Ocimum sanctum extract as a herbal drug to combat cancer effectively.
15) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of drug action. In this context, the research explores the pharmacological properties of Ocimum sanctum, particularly its efficacy as an anti-cancer agent and its mechanisms of action on cancer cells.
16) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulate in this study may refer to the process of holding or gathering substances within the cells. The effects of Ocimum sanctum extract on cell functionality, including how apoptosis may lead to the accumulation of certain cellular changes, is a focus.
17) Container:
A container is used to store the methanol extract of Ocimum sanctum. The proper containment and storage of botanical extracts are vital to maintain their stability and potency during scientific evaluation.
18) Toxicity:
Toxicity concerns the degree to which a substance, such as Ocimum sanctum extract, can damage normal cells versus cancer cells. This study aims to elucidate the differential toxic effects of the extract, confirming its safety on healthy tissues.
19) Bengal (Bemgal):
Bengal, the region in India where the research was conducted, is relevant for its agricultural practices, traditional medicine, and as the habitat for Ocimum sanctum. The cultural context enhances the understanding of the plant's medicinal applications.
20) Nature:
Nature references the intrinsic qualities and biological activities of plants like Ocimum sanctum, reflecting its inherent pharmacological properties that contribute to its medicinal potential in cancer treatment.
21) Shila (Sila):
Shila Elizabeth Besra is the corresponding author of the research, leading the study at the Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind this important scientific investigation into the anti-cancer effects of Ocimum sanctum.
22) Raja:
Raja refers to Raja S.C. Mullick Road, the location of the research institution where the study was conducted. Place names often have cultural significance and denote the geographic context of scientific research.
23) Diva:
Diva in this document refers to BD FACS Diva software, utilized for flow cytometric analysis, critical in obtaining accurate and reliable data from the experiments assessing the effects of Ocimum sanctum on cancer cells.
24) Road:
Road signifies the actual physical route in Kolkata where research institutions and laboratories are located. It represents the infrastructure supporting scientific research and study in the region.
25) Civilization:
Civilization refers to the complex societies and cultures that have historically utilized medicinal plants like Ocimum sanctum. Understanding this collective historical wisdom is essential for modern scientific inquiries into herbal medicine.
26) Discussion:
Discussion is a critical component of the research paper that interprets results and contextualizes findings within existing literature. It synthesizes the data collected to elucidate the implications of Ocimum sanctum's anti-cancer properties.
27) Science (Scientific):
Science represents the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. This research epitomizes the scientific method applied to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Ocimum sanctum.
28) Mythology:
Mythology highlights the cultural and historical narratives associated with Ocimum sanctum, revealing how the plant is viewed in Indian culture, which enhances its significance in the research context as a revered medicinal herb.
29) Nilanjana (Nila-anjana, Nilamjana):
Nilanjana Deb is one of the co-authors of the study, indicating the collaborative nature of scientific research, involving multiple researchers working together to advance knowledge in pharmacology and cancer treatment.
30) Mutation:
Mutation refers to changes in the genetic material that can lead to cancer. Understanding the role of mutations in cancer development is crucial for evaluating how treatments like Ocimum sanctum extract can target and inhibit cancer growth.
31) Account:
Account here signifies a narrative or recording of research findings and observations, which contribute to the broader scientific knowledge regarding the effects of Ocimum sanctum on cancer cells.
32) Species:
Species refers to the specific classification of a plant, in this case, Ocimum sanctum. Understanding its classification helps contextualize its biological and pharmacological characteristics within the larger botanical world.
33) Kanika:
Kanika Kisku is acknowledged as one of the co-authors, reflecting the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of scientific research. Each contributor adds their expertise to enhance the quality and impact of the study.
34) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma, in this context, refers to Vishal Sharma, a co-author involved in the research project, emphasizing the teamwork necessary for complex scientific investigations and highlighting various academic backgrounds within the research team.
35) Ashrama (Asrama):
The term Ashram refers to the location where the Ocimum sanctum leaves were collected. It represents the traditional practices of utilizing natural resources for medicinal purposes, reinforcing the study's connection to cultural heritage.
36) Powder:
Powder refers to the ground form of Ocimum sanctum leaves used to extract the methanol solution for the study. The preparation process is essential for ensuring the bioactive compounds are effectively isolated for evaluation.
37) Fever:
Fever represents one of the common ailments for which Ocimum sanctum has traditionally been used in Indian medicine. The historical use of the plant for various diseases underlines its significance in modern pharmacological research.
38) Arya:
Gaurav Arya is one of the primary authors of the research paper, showcasing the contributions of individual researchers in advancing knowledge about the anti-cancer properties of Ocimum sanctum.
39) Pune:
Pune is the location where certain cell lines used in the research were obtained. Its mention emphasizes the collaborative network of research institutions in India that support scientific endeavors related to medicinal plants.
40) Sign:
Sign refers to the indications or markers observed during the study that demonstrate the effects of Ocimum sanctum on cancer cells. These signs play a critical role in validating the research findings and their implications.
41) Life:
Life defines the essential biological processes and characteristics of living organisms, which are critically examined when assessing the impacts of Ocimum sanctum extract on both cancerous and normal cells in the study.