Investigation of the Effect of Cuscuta Spp. Extract on Cell Viability

Abstract

Cancer is becoming an increasingly serious health problem worldwide. While various treatment approaches exist for diseases like colorectal cancer, they have not yet been found to be fully effective. Therefore, the development of new anti-cancer drugs is crucial. Cuscuta is a plant used in functional foods and for traditional medicinal purposes in various cultures, including Ayurveda and its medicinal traditions, which are widespread throughout the world. In preclinical studies, Cuscuta spp. have demonstrated anticytotoxic and cytoprotective properties and potential anticancer effects, particularly in various cell lines and animal models. Fibroblasts are scientifically proven to be the primary normal cell type of connective tissue, typically mesenchymal in origin. This is represented by the laboratory L929 mouse fibroblast cell line. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and the third most common cause of cancer-related death. Our study aimed to determine the cytotoxic effects of Cuscuta spp extract, known to have medicinal effects in various diseases in public health, on the L929 mouse fibroblast cell line and the HT-29 human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line. For cytotoxic analysis, the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] enzymatic test was preferred. In vitro testing using Cuscuta spp extract revealed decreased viability in L929 fibroblast cell line and HT-29 human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells exposed to Cuscuta spp plant extract for 24 and 48 hours. The plant extract showed more cytotoxic effects on fibroblast cells, a normal cell line. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Cuscuta spp. extract exhibits high cytotoxicity on normal cells and has limited effects on cancer cells. Further studies are needed for its pharmacological use.