Induction of apoptosis by grape seed extract (Vitis vinifera) in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Amirala Aghbali1, Sepideh Vosough Hosseini, Abbas Delazar

  • 1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Faculty of Dentistry, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Daneshgah street 51666-14766, Tabriz, Iran.

Insights

Grape seed extract (GSE) shows promising anti-cancer properties against oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study demonstrates GSE effectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells without harming healthy cells, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Natural Products

Background:

  • Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Herbal medicines are increasingly explored as potential anti-cancer agents.
  • Grape seed extract (GSE) is a focus for its potential bioactive compounds.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the cytotoxic effects of GSE on oral squamous cell carcinoma (KB cells).
  • To elucidate the mechanism of cell death induced by GSE.
  • To evaluate the safety of GSE on non-cancerous cells (HUVEC).

Main Methods:

  • Cytotoxicity was assessed using MTT and trypan blue assays in KB cells and HUVEC.
  • Apoptosis induction was analyzed via TUNEL assay, DNA fragmentation, and cell death analysis.
  • Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Duncan's test (P≤0.05).

Main Results:

  • GSE exhibited significant dose- and time-dependent inhibition of cell growth and viability in KB cells.
  • GSE induced apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells.
  • No significant damage was observed in the non-cancerous HUVEC cell line.

Conclusions:

  • GSE possesses significant apoptotic potential against oral squamous cell carcinoma.
  • The findings suggest GSE contains bioactive compounds effective for OSCC treatment.
  • GSE demonstrates selective toxicity towards cancer cells, sparing normal cells.

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