Tumor cell-selective antiproliferative effect of the extract from Morinda citrifolia fruits

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Morinda citrifolia (Noni) is a tropical fruit used in traditional medicine.
• Investigating the cytotoxic potential of plant extracts is crucial for discovering new anticancer agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the in vitro cytotoxic activity of Morinda citrifolia fruit methanol extract.
• To determine the median lethal concentrations (LC50) in various cell lines.
• To assess the extract's selective toxicity towards cancer cells versus normal cells.

Main Methods:

• Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay.
• The extract was tested on baby hamster kidney (BHK), African green monkey kidney (Vero), human laryngeal carcinoma (Hep2), breast cancer (MCF7), and neuroblastoma (LAN5) cell lines.
• Median lethal concentrations (LC50) were calculated.

Main Results:

• Cytotoxic effects were concentration-dependent.
• LC50 values were determined as 2.5 mg/mL (BHK), 3 mg/mL (Vero), and 5 mg/mL (Hep2).
• At 0.1 mg/mL, the extract inhibited MCF7 and LAN5 cell viability by 29% and 36%, respectively, with minimal toxicity to Vero, BHK, and Hep2 cells.

Conclusions:

• Morinda citrifolia fruit methanol extract exhibits significant in vitro cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines.
• The extract demonstrates potential selective toxicity, suggesting therapeutic promise.
• Further research into the active compounds and mechanisms of action is warranted.