Abstract

Aim:Methanolic extract of aFraxinus micrantha(MeFM) was evaluated for antiproliferative activity in vitrousing Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) breast carcinoma cell line. This plant was selected and studied for naturally available bioactive compound as different synthetic drugs available for cancer treatment has certain limitations and side effects. Materials and Methods:The anti-proliferative activity of a methanolic extract from the aerial parts of F. micranthawas assessed on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line using 3(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay. Furthermore, to understand the mechanism of anti-proliferation, production of nitric oxide (NO) and DNA fragmentation was also determined on MCF-7 cells. Different phytoconstituents of the extract were determined qualitatively based on various biochemical assays. Results: The results demonstrated anti-proliferative activity of an MeFM in a concentration and time-dependent manner. The percentage viability determined was 31.24% at 125 μg/ml as compared to 80.46% in negative control group. An MeFM has also shown NO production in a concentration (0.2-125 μg/ml) and time-dependent manner (24-48 h). DNA fragmentation studies showed that a methanolic extract was causing DNA fragmentation thus inducing apoptosis in MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells. Biochemical analysis result showed the presence of flavonoids, polyphenols, and sterols in an MeFM. Conclusion:In conclusion, F. micranthapossesses potent anti-proliferative activity on the malignant MCF-7 cell line which is correlated with the production of NO and DNA fragmentation. Further studies are required to identify, isolate, and characterize the phytochemicals present in the methanolic extract that might have antiproliferative potential in the treatment of different cancer conditions.

Key words: Antiproliferation, DNA fragmentation, Fraxinus micrantha, nitric oxide, Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 breast cancer cell line