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Milk fat globule membrane isolate induces apoptosis in HT-29 human colon cancer cells
Romina Zanabria1, Angela M Tellez, Mansel Griffiths
1University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada. rzanabri@uoguelph.ca
Abstract:
A native milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) isolate obtained from raw milk was assessed for its anticarcinogenic capacity using a colon cancer cell line (HT-29). To prevent microbial contamination and eliminate the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the milk used for MFGM isolation, the milk was obtained from the mammary glands of cows using a catheter. Cell proliferation assays demonstrated a reduction of exponentially growing cancer cells of up to 53%, expressed as DNA synthesis (BrdU test), after 72 h stimulation with 100 μg of MFGM protein per mL. Using a similar MFGM concentration, the sulforhodamine B assay resulted in 57% reduction of cell density after 48 h incubation. This bioactivity was comparable to that of known anticancer drugs, 0.1 mM melphalan and 20 μM C2-ceramide, which achieved a cell division reduction of 25 and 40%, respectively, under the same experimental conditions. The toxic effect of the MFGM extracts on HT-29 cells was confirmed by the significant reduction in lactate dehydrogenase enzyme (LDH) by the residual viable cells. An increase of caspase-3 activity (up to 26%) led to the conclusion that MFGM has an apoptotic effect on HT-29 cancer cells.
Insights
Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) shows significant anticancer properties against colon cancer cells. This natural compound effectively reduced cancer cell proliferation and induced apoptosis, offering a promising natural therapeutic agent.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is a natural byproduct of milk processing.
- Potential therapeutic applications of MFGM components are increasingly being explored.
- Colon cancer remains a significant global health concern requiring novel treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the anticarcinogenic potential of a native MFGM isolate.
- To investigate the effect of MFGM on colon cancer cell line (HT-29) proliferation and viability.
- To determine the mechanism of action, including apoptosis induction.
Main Methods:
- MFGM was isolated from raw milk using a catheterized mammary gland method to ensure purity.
- Cell proliferation was assessed using DNA synthesis (BrdU test) and cell density (sulforhodamine B assay).
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and caspase-3 activity were measured to confirm toxicity and apoptosis.
Main Results:
- MFGM isolate significantly reduced HT-29 cell proliferation by up to 53% (BrdU test) and 57% (sulforhodamine B assay).
- The observed bioactivity was comparable to established anticancer drugs like melphalan and C2-ceramide.
- MFGM treatment led to increased caspase-3 activity, indicating apoptosis induction, and reduced LDH levels in residual cells.
Conclusions:
- Native MFGM possesses significant anticarcinogenic properties against colon cancer cells.
- MFGM effectively inhibits cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis.
- MFGM represents a promising natural compound for further development as a colon cancer therapeutic.
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