940 nm diode laser induced differentiation of human adipose derived stem cells to temporomandibular joint disc cells.

BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) refers to a group of disorders that affect temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its associated muscles with very limited treatment options. Stem cell research is emerging as one of the promising fields in the treatment of degenerative diseases. The ability of human adipose derived stem cells to differentiate into many cell types is driving special interest in several disease management strategies. Photobiomodulation has enhanced the role of these stem cells through their ability to promote cell proliferation and differentiation. Hence, this study examined the differentiation potential of human adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) into fibroblasts and chondrocytes using a 940 nm diode laser for possible TMD therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: ADSCs were cultured at different seeding densities and for different time intervals. After irradiation at 24, 48, 72 h, 1, 2 and 3 weeks, ADSC viability and morphological changes were assessed in groups with and without basic fibroblast growth factor. Additionally, the level of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the cells was also recorded. The differentiated fibroblasts and chondrocytes were characterized with flow cytometry and immunofluorescence techniques, at 1- and 2-weeks post-irradiation. RESULTS: Increased ATP proliferation and cell viability above 90% were observed in all post-irradiation experimental groups. Post irradiation results from flow cytometry and immunofluorescence at 1- and 2-weeks confirmed the expression of chondrogenic and fibroblastic cell surface markers. CONCLUSION: This study describes stimulatory techniques utilized to differentiate ADSCs into fibroblastic and chondrogenic phenotypes using diode lasers at 940 nm. The study proposes a new treatment model for patients with degenerative disc diseases of the TMJ. The study will offer new possibilities in tissue engineering and TMJ disc management through photobiomodulation of ADSCs using a 940 nm diode laser.

Can Nanoparticles in Homeopathic Remedies Enhance Phototherapy of Cancer? A Hypothetical Model.

The continuous rise in cancer incidence places a massive burden on the health sector to increase efforts in the fight against cancer. As a holistic complementary medicine modality, homeopathy has the potential to assist in the supportive and palliative treatment of cancer patients. Recent empirical studies demonstrate the presence of silica and original source nanoparticles in ultra-high dilutions of several homeopathic medicines. Recent studies have also demonstrated the efficacy of phototherapy in inducing the ablation of cancer cells through laser-activated nanoparticle photosensitizers. A new hypothetical research model is presented herein, in an attempt to investigate and compare the phototherapeutic effects of homeopathic source nanoparticles with photosensitizing nanoparticle agents that have previously been tested.

Laser-Induced Differentiation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells to Temporomandibular Joint Disc Cells.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is an incapacitating disease with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc degenerative changes in patients. Despite several research attempts to find a definitive treatment, there is no evidence of a permanent solution. The objective of the current study was to observe the role of 660 nm diode laser in the differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) to fibroblasts and chondrocytes. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: After irradiation, the morphology, viability, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) proliferation of the ADSCs were analyzed at different time intervals. The differentiation of ADSCs toward fibroblastic and chondrogenic phenotypes was supported using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence at 1- and 2-week post-irradiation. RESULTS: More than 90% of viable cells were observed in all experimental groups, with an increase in ATP proliferation. Flow cytometry analyses and immunofluorescence demonstrated the presence of chondrogenic and fibroblastic cell surface markers at 1- and 2-week post-irradiation. CONCLUSION: This study has demonstrated methods to induce the differentiation of ADSCs toward fibroblastic and chondrogenic phenotypes with a 660 nm diode laser. The study also proposes a future alternative method of treatment for patients with degenerative TMJ disc disorders and presents a positive prospect in the application of photobiomodulation and ADSCs in the treatment of degenerative TMJ disc. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

The Role of Melanoma Cell-Derived Exosomes (MTEX) and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) within a Tumor Microenvironment.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), an unconventional cancer therapy with optimistic desirable effects, utilizes the delivery of a photosensitizer (PS) that is activated by light at a particular wavelength and inducing oxidative cytotoxic damage of a tumor and its surrounding vasculature. Deeper seated tumors such as internally metastasized melanomas are more difficult to treat with PDT as the penetration of laser light to those sites is less. Limitations in targeting melanomas can also be attributed to melanin pigments that hinder laser light from reaching targeted sites. Exosomes serve as naturally occurring nanoparticles that can be re-assembled with PSs, improving targeted cellular absorption of photosensitizing agents during PDT. Additionally, studies indicate that exosomes released from PDT-treated tumor cells play a critical role in mediating anti-tumor immune responses. This review collates the role of Melanoma Cell-Derived Exosomes (MTEX) in immune response mediation and metastasis. Tumor Cell-Derived Exosomes (TEX) post PDT treatment are also reviewed, as well as the effects of exosomes as carriers of photosensitizers and delivery systems for PDT. The understanding and research on the role of melanoma exosomes induced by Photodynamic Therapy and their tumor microenvironment will assist in future research in treatment prospects and implications.

Anti-Proliferative, Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Syzygium mundagam Bark Methanol Extract.

Cancer, pain and inflammation have long been a cause for concern amongst patients, clinicians and research scientists. There is an alarming increase in the demand for medicines suppressing these disease conditions. The present study investigates the role of Syzygium mundagam bark methanol (SMBM) extract against MCF-7 breast cancer cells, pain and inflammation. The MCF-7 cells treated with SMBM were analyzed for adenosine triphosphate (ATP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, changes in cell morphology and nuclear damage. Hot plate, acetic acid and formalin-induced pain models were followed to determine the analgesic activity. Anti-inflammatory activity was studied using carrageenan, egg albumin and cotton pellet induced rat models. Microscopic images of cells in SMBM treated groups showed prominent cell shrinkage and nuclear damage. Hoechst stain results supported the cell death morphology. The decline in ATP (47.96%) and increased LDH (40.96%) content indicated SMBM induced toxicity in MCF-7 cells. In the in vivo study, a higher dose (200 mg/kg) of the extract was found to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation. The results are promising and the action of the extract on MCF-7 cells, pain and inflammation models indicate the potential of drugs of natural origin to improve current therapies.

Phytochemical composition, antioxidant and anti-bacterial activity of Syzygium calophyllifolium Walp. fruit.

Syzygium calophyllifolium fruits are among the important wild edibles used by the tribes of Western Ghats. However, this underutilized fruit remained unnoticed for its medicinal properties. Hence, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the antioxidant activity by DPPH·, ABTS·+, FRAP assays and antibacterial efficacy by well diffusion method. GC-MS and HPLC profiles of crude extract and column chromatographic fractions were also determined. The methanolic extract of fruit (MFE) showed high total phenolics, tannins and flavonoids. The faction H (FH) displayed significant antioxidant property in DPPH· (IC50 2.1 µg/ml), ABTS·+ (19483.29 µM Trolox equivalents/g extract) and FRAP (65.5 mM Fe(II)/mg extract) assays over MFE. Moreover, FH also exhibited good antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (32.0 mm), Salmonella typhi (27.0 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (27.3 mm) at 100 mg/ml concentration. GC-MS revealed 12 major compounds in MFE, HPLC analysis of MFE and FH depicted the presence of rutin and ellagic acid. This study suggested that FH could have high concentration of bioactive compounds like rutin and ellagic acid or its analogues compared to MFE which may be responsible for its strong antioxidant and antibacterial activity.

Maesa indica: a nutritional wild berry rich in polyphenols with special attention to radical scavenging and inhibition of key enzymes, α-amylase and α-glucosidase.

The present study was aimed to evaluate the nutritional, antioxidant properties and inhibition of the key enzyme such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase from the fruits of Maesa indica. The results revealed that M. indica fruits possess an enormous amount of protein (45.68 mg/g), carbohydrates (25.12 mg/g) and mineral elements. The acetone extract were capable of hunting radicals by providing electrons and break chain reaction, especially in ABTS·+ (3719.23 µmol TE/g extract), OH· (66.50 %) and NO· (81.50 %) radical scavenging assays. The methanol extract showed a strong inhibition towards α-amylase and α-glucosidase (IC50 of 37.80 and 23.74 µg/mL, respectively). HPLC analysis enumerate that both extracts illustrates the presence of polyphenolic compounds namely quercetin, caffeic acid, rutin and chlorogenic acid.

Overcoming challenges in cancer treatment: Nano-enabled photodynamic therapy as a viable solution.

Cancer presents a formidable challenge, necessitating innovative therapies that maximize effectiveness while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative force in cancer treatment, particularly through nano-enabled photodynamic therapy (NE-PDT), which leverages precise and targeted interventions. NE-PDT capitalizes on photosensitizers activated by light to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that initiate apoptotic pathways in cancer cells. Nanoparticle enhancements optimize this process, improving drug delivery, selectivity, and ROS production within tumors. This review dissects NE-PDT's mechanistic framework, showcasing its potential to harness apoptosis as a potent tool in cancer therapy. Furthermore, the review explores the synergy between NE-PDT and complementary treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies, highlighting the potential to amplify apoptotic responses, enhance immune recognition of cancer cells, and inhibit resistance mechanisms. Preclinical and clinical advancements in NE-PDT demonstrate its efficacy across various cancer types. Challenges in translating NE-PDT into clinical practice are also addressed, emphasizing the need for optimizing nanoparticle design, refining dosimetry, and ensuring long-term safety. Ultimately, NE-PDT represents a promising approach in cancer therapy, utilizing the intricate mechanisms of apoptosis to address therapeutic hurdles. The review underscores the importance of understanding the interplay between nanoparticles, ROS generation, and apoptotic pathways, contributing to a deeper comprehension of cancer biology and novel therapeutic strategies. As interdisciplinary collaborations continue to thrive, NE-PDT offers hope for effective and targeted cancer interventions, where apoptosis manipulation becomes central to conquering cancer. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease.

Aluminium phthalocyanine-mediated photodynamic therapy induces ATM-related DNA damage response and apoptosis in human oesophageal cancer cells.

Introduction: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light-based technique used in the treatment of malignant and non-malignant tissue. Aluminium-phthalocyanine chloride tetra sulfonate (AlPcS4Cl)-mediated PDT has been well investigated on several cancer types, including oesophageal cancer. However, the effects of (AlPcS4Cl)-mediated PDT on DNA damage response and the mechanism of cell death in oesophageal cancer needs further investigation. Methods: Here, we examined the in vitro effects of AlPcS4Cl-mediated PDT on cell cycle, DNA damage response, oxidative stress, and intrinsic apoptotic cell death pathway in HKESC-1 oesophageal cancer cells. The HKESC-1 cells were exposed to PDT using a semiconductor laser diode (673.2 nm, 5 J/cm2 fluency). Cell viability and cytotoxicity were determined by the ATP cell viability assay and the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay, respectively. Cell cycle and DNA damage response (DDR) analyses were conducted using the Muse™ cell cycle kit and the Muse® multi-color DNA damage kit, respectively. The mode of cell death was identified using the Annexin V-FITC/PI detection assay and Muse® Autophagy LC3 antibody-based kit. The intrinsic apoptotic pathway was investigated by measuring the cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) function, cytochrome c levels and the activity of caspase 3/7 enzymes. Results: The results show that AlPcS4Cl-based PDT reduced cell viability, induced cytotoxicity, cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase, and DNA double-strand break (DSB) through the upregulation of the ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM), a DNA damage sensor. In addition, the findings showed that AlPcS4Cl-based PDT induced cell death via apoptosis, which is observed through increased ROS production, reduced ΔΨm, increased cytochrome c release, and activation of caspase 3/7 enzyme. Finally, no autophagy was observed in the AlPcS4Cl-mediated PDT-treated cells. Conclusion: Our findings showed that apoptotic cell death is the main cell death mechanism triggered by AlPcS4Cl-mediated PDT in oesophageal cancer cells.

Nutritional composition and antioxidant properties of Cucumis dipsaceus Ehrenb. ex Spach leaf.

The leaf of C. dipsaceus was evaluated for its nutritional and antioxidant properties. From the present investigation, significant amount of almost all essential amino acids and important minerals were quantified. Low levels of trypsin inhibitory units, phenolics, and tannins content were found as antinutritional content. Further, hot water extract of C. dipsaceus showed good activity especially in ABTS(+), metal chelating, nitric oxide, and DPPH assays. Hence, the results conclude that C. dipsaceus could be a valuable nutraceutical supplement to the human diet.

Curcumin a Natural Phenol and Its Therapeutic Role in Cancer and Photodynamic Therapy: A Review.

Cancer continues to cause an alarming number of deaths globally, and its burden on the health system is significant. Though different conventional therapeutic procedures are exploited for cancer treatment, the prevalence and death rates remain elevated. These, therefore, insinuate that novel and more efficient treatment procedures are needed for cancer. Curcumin, a bioactive, natural, phenolic compound isolated from the rhizome of the herbaceous plant turmeric, is receiving great interest for its exciting and broad pharmacological properties. Curcumin presents anticancer therapeutic capacities and can be utilized as a photosensitizing drug in cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT). Nonetheless, curcumin's poor bioavailability and related pharmacokinetics limit its clinical utility in cancer treatment. This review looks at the physical and chemical properties, bioavailability, and safety of curcumin, while focusing on curcumin as an agent in cancer therapy and as a photosensitizer in cancer PDT. The possible mechanisms and cellular targets of curcumin in cancer therapy and PDT are highlighted. Furthermore, recent improvements in curcumin's bioavailability in cancer therapy using nanoformulations and delivery systems are presented.

Impact of Aluminium phthalocyanine nanoconjugate on melanoma stem cells.

Metastatic melanoma cancer stem cells are subpopulations linked to tumour development, immunoevasive behaviour, treatment resistance, and metastasis, all of which contribute to a poor prognosis. Photodynamic treatment (PDT) is an alternate strategy to cancer eradication that involves the generation of reactive oxygen species. As a carrier, nanoparticles enable efficient cellular uptake of photosensitizers, improving organelle accumulation and cancer cell targeted therapy. This study considered at the effect of PDT on CD133+ Melanoma Stem Cells utilising an Aluminium Phthalocyanine Gold Nanoparticle (AlPcS4Cl-AuNP) combination. A ligand exchange approach was used to conjugate AlPcS4Cl-PEG-AuNP-COOH and was characterised using UV-Vis, FTIR, DLS and Zeta Potential. Stem cells isolated from the A375 cell line irradiated with a laser at 673.2 nm with a fluency of 5 J/cm2 were evaluated. Furthermore, it was important to study if apoptosis was one of the mechanisms causing to cell death which was substantiated with Annexin V/PI, caspase 3 and p53 analysis. The nanoparticle conjugate mediated PDT promoted apoptotic cell death, showing increased expression of p53 and caspase-3. The study proposed a strategy aimed at extending the understanding of PDT in enhancing the therapy of melanoma, suggesting a probable improved cell death when AlPcS4Cl was conjugated to AuNPs.

Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles for Targeted Cancer Therapy and Enhancing Photodynamic Therapy.

Different conventional therapeutic procedures are utilized globally to manage cancer cases, yet the mortality rate in patients with cancer remains considerably high. Developments in the field of nanotechnology have included novel therapeutic strategies to deal with cancer. Biogenic (green) metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) obtained using plant-mediated protocols are attractive to researchers exploring cancer treatment. Biogenic AgNPs present advantages, since they are cost-effective, easy to obtain, energy efficient, and less toxic compared to chemically and physically obtained AgNPs. Also, they present excellent anticancer abilities thanks to their unique sizes, shapes, and optical properties. This review provides recent advancements in exploring biogenic AgNPs as a drug or agent for cancer treatment. Thus, great attention was paid to the anticancer efficacy of biogenic AgNPs, their anticancer mechanisms, their efficacy in cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT), their efficacy in targeted cancer therapy, and their toxicity.

Identification of current priorities for research in humanitarian action: proceedings of the First Annual UN OCHA Policy and Research Conference.

On December 12-13, 2011, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) hosted a humanitarian policy and research conference on the theme of "Risk, Adaptation and Innovation in Humanitarian Action." The four sessions of the conference covered humanitarian action in a changing world, adaptation and innovation in humanitarian action, humanitarian action in protracted and violent conflict, and effective humanitarian action. This special report contains summaries of presentations in each session and the conclusions resulting from the discussions throughout. Through a process of open discussion, debate, and a closing survey, the conference participants identified four top priorities in humanitarian research for the coming years: evidence-driven humanitarian decision-making; accountability and transparency; risk and agility; and partnership. In addition to plans for a 2nd Annual Research and Policy conference in December of 2012, specific outcomes of the conference include a series of regional workshops in 2012 and 2013, launching with Asia, Africa and the Middle East; creation of Policy Working Groups (PWG) for each research priority identified; and a new flagship OCHA publication, to be launched in late 2012 or early 2013, which will share the progress made on the research priorities identified.

Anticancer Activity of Urease Mimetic Cobalt (III) Complexes on A549-Lung Cancer Cells: Targeting the Acidic Microenvironment.

Tumour cells maintain a local hypoxic and acidic microenvironment which plays a crucial role in cancer progression and drug resistance. Urease is a metallohydrolases that catalyses the hydrolysis of urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide, causing an abrupt increase of pH. This enzymatic activity can be employed to target the acidic tumour microenvironment. In this study, we present the anticancer activities of urease mimetic cobalt (III) complexes on A549 cells. The cells were treated with different doses of cobalt (III) complexes to observe the cytotoxicity. The change in cellular morphology was observed using an inverted microscope. The cell death induced by these complexes was analysed through ATP proliferation, LDH release and caspase 3/7 activity. The effect of extracellular alkalinization by the cobalt (III) complexes on the efficacy of the weakly basic drug, doxorubicin (dox) was also evaluated. This combination therapy of dox with cobalt (III) complexes resulted in enhanced apoptosis in A549 cells, as evidenced by elevated caspase 3/7 activity in treated groups. The study confirms the urease mimicking anticancer activity of cobalt (III) complexes by neutralizing the tumour microenvironment. This study will motivate the applications of transition metal-based enzyme mimics in targeting the tumour microenvironment for effective anticancer treatments.

In Vitro Photodynamic Treatment Modality for A375 Melanoma Cell Line Using a Sulphonated Aluminum Phthalocyanine Chloride-Photosensitizer-Gold Nanoparticle Conjugate.

Metastatic melanoma cancer stem cells are subpopulations that have been identified and linked to tumor progression, immunoevasive behavior, drug resistance, and metastasis, leading to a poor prognosis. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an approach to eradicate cancer through a photochemical process which directly generates reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study investigated the impact of PDT using an aluminum phthalocyanine gold nanoparticle (AlPcS4Cl-AuNP) conjugate for targeting melanoma stem cells. The isolated stem cells were irradiated at 673.2 nm with a radiant exposure of 5 J/cm2. Post-irradiation signs of cell death were determined using microscopy and biochemical assays. A possible enhanced effect of ROS in inducing cell death could be seen when AlPcS4Cl was conjugated to AuNPs. Nanoparticles as carriers promote the efficient cellular uptake of photosensitizers, enhancing organelle accumulation and the targeted therapy of cancerous cells. A biochemical assay revealed significant post-irradiation signs of cell death. The measurement of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content revealed a decrease in cell proliferation. The study suggested an approach directed at expanding the knowledge on PDT to improve cancer treatment. Understanding the cell death mechanism through which ROS influence cancer stem cells (CSCs) is, therefore, useful for improving PDT efficiency and preventing tumor recurrence and metastasis.

A Gold Nanoparticle Bioconjugate Delivery System for Active Targeted Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer and Cancer Stem Cells.

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), also called tumor-initiating cells, are a subpopulation of cancer cells believed to be the leading cause of cancer initiation, growth, metastasis, and recurrence. Presently there are no effective treatments targeted at eliminating CSCs. Hence, an urgent need to develop measures to target CSCs to eliminate potential recurrence and metastasis associated with CSCs. Cancer stem cells have inherent and unique features that differ from other cancer cells, which they leverage to resist conventional therapies. Targeting such features with photodynamic therapy (PDT) could be a promising treatment for drug-resistant cancer stem cells. Photodynamic therapy is a light-mediated non-invasive treatment modality. However, PDT alone is unable to eliminate cancer stem cells effectively, hence the need for a targeted approach. Gold nanoparticle bioconjugates with PDT could be a potential approach for targeted photodynamic therapy of cancer and CSCs. This approach has the potential for enhanced drug delivery, selective and specific attachment to target tumor cells/CSCs, as well as the ability to efficiently generate ROS. This review examines the impact of a smart gold nanoparticle bioconjugate coupled with a photosensitizer (PS) in promoting targeted PDT of cancer and CSC.

Photodynamic Effects of Thuja occidentalis on Lung Cancer Cells.

The global incidence and mortality rates resulting from lung cancer encapsulate a need to identify more effective treatment protocols. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and homeopathy offer possible anticancer therapies as part of a multi-disciplinary approach. Studies have identified the anticancer effects of Thuja occidentalis L. plant extracts. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Thuja occidentalis (TO) homeopathic mother tincture and TO mediated PDT (TO-PDT) on A549 lung cancer cells. Commercially available A549 cells were pre-treated with TO, or laser irradiation at 660 nm, or the combined treatment (TO-PDT). Cells were analyzed morphologically by inverted light microscopy and Hoechst stain; and biochemically by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and trypan blue assays. Cells treated with TO and TO-PDT demonstrated morphological changes in the cell and cell nuclei indicative of cell death. These groups exhibited a dose dependent increase in LDH release and a decrease in ATP levels and cell viability indicating its cytotoxic and antiproliferative potential. Furthermore, at the same doses, TO when photoactivated in PDT induced enhanced anticancer responses thereby surpassing the effects of treatment with the tincture alone. Results demonstrate how the direct cytotoxic effects of TO can be improved when administered as a photosensitizer in PDT to promote cancer cell death.

Role of Phytochemicals in Cancer Chemoprevention: Insights.

Cancer is a condition where the body cells multiply in an uncontrollable manner. Chemoprevention of cancer is a broad term that describes the involvement of external agents to slow down or suppress cancer growth. Synthetic and natural compounds are found useful in cancer chemoprevention. The occurrence of global cancer type varies, depending on many factors such as environmental, lifestyle, genetic etc. Cancer is often preventable in developed countries with advanced treatment modalities, whereas it is a painful death sentence in developing and low-income countries due to the lack of modern therapies and awareness. One best practice to identify cancer control measures is to study the origin and risk factors associated with common types. Based on these factors and the health status of patients, stage, and severity of cancer, type of treatment is decided. Even though there are well-established therapies, cancer still stands as one of the major causes of death and a public health burden globally. Research shows that most cancers can be prevented, treated, or the incidence can be delayed. Phytochemicals from various medicinal plants were reported to reduce various risk factors associated with different types of cancer through their chemopreventive role. This review highlights the role of bioactive compounds or natural products from plants in the chemoprevention of cancer. There are many plant based dietary factors involved in the chemoprevention process. The review discusses the process of carcinogenesis and chemoprevention using plants and phytocompounds, with special reference to five major chemopreventive phytocompounds. The article also summarizes the important chemopreventive mechanisms and signaling molecules involved in the process. Since the role of antioxidants in chemoprevention is inevitable, an insight into plant-based antioxidant compounds that fight against this dreadful disease at various stages of carcinogenesis and disease progression is discussed. This will fill the research gap in search of chemopreventive natural compounds and encourage scientists in clinical trials of anticancer agents from plants.

Combined Effect of Vaccinium nilgiriensis Bark Extract and 680nm Laser Irradiation in Inducing Breast Cancer Cell Death.

BACKGROUND: Cancer refers to a collection of diseases where cells begin to multiply uncontrollably. Breast cancer is the most predominant malignancy in women. Herbal medicine is one of the important health care systems in most developing countries. Many studies have shown that naturally occurring compounds may support the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including cancer. Some of the plant extracts and isolated compounds show photosensitizing activities and reduce cell proliferation whereas some have revealed photoprotective effects. OBJECTIVES: The biological properties and medicinal uses of extracts and bioactive compounds from V. nilgiriensis have not been investigated. This study aims to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of V. nilgiriensis in combination with 680nm laser irradiation on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. METHODS: The inverted microscopy, ATP and LDH assay were used to analyze the cellular morphology, proliferation, cytotoxicity respectively after the treatment with V. nilgiriensis bark extract. The diode laser of wavelength 680nm and 15 J/cm2 fluency has been used for laser irradiation. The activity of apoptotic proteins was studied using ELISA and nuclear damage by Hoechst staining. RESULTS: The exposure of V. nilgiriensis extracts with laser irradiation at 680nm increases the cytotoxicity and decreases the proliferation of MCF-7 cells. The results of the Hoechst stain indicated nuclear damage. Our study proved that V. nilgiriensis holds a strong cytotoxic effect on breast cancer cells alone and in combination with laser irradiation by upregulating the expression of apoptotic proteins such as caspase 3, p53 and Bax. CONCLUSION: The results from this study showed that the bark ethyl acetate of V. nilgiriensis and in combination with laser is effective in preventing breast cancer cell proliferation in vitro. Further work is warranted to isolate the bioactive compounds from V. nilgiriensis bark extract and study the effect of compounds in the cell death induction. Due to the cytotoxic properties, V. nilgiriensis can be considered as a potent therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancer.