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Published on: May 14, 2012
A study on inhibitory effect of Spica prunellae extract on T lymphoma cell EL-4 tumour
Xingjiang Mao1, Gengfu Wang, Wei Zhang
1Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Wei Hui 453100, China.
Abstract:
The objective of the study was to investigate the in-vivo anti-tumour activity of Spica prunellae extract, and to preliminarily explore the possible mechanism of in-vivo anti-tumour effect of Spica prunellae extract. Tumour inhibition rate and tumour apoptosis-related protein status were determined using the mice model of transplanted T lymphoma cell EL-4 tumour, and by immunohistochemical method. The results revealed that Spica prunellae extract showed certain tumour inhibitory effect, and compared with the model group. Tumour weight in Spica prunellae high-dose group was highly significantly different (P<0.01). Tumour weight in Spica prunellae medium-dose group was also significantly different (P<0.05) compared with the model group. Spica prunellae high-dose group enabled the high expression of Bcl-2 protein (47.54%) and low expression of Bax protein (13.14%). The study concluded that Spica prunellae extract has certain in vivo anti-tumour effect, which may be achieved through regulation of apoptosis related proteins.
Insights
Spica prunellae extract demonstrated significant in vivo anti-tumour effects in a mouse model. This natural compound may work by regulating apoptosis-related proteins, offering potential for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Background:
- Spica prunellae, a component of traditional Chinese medicine, has been historically used for various ailments.
- The potential anti-tumour properties of Spica prunellae warrant scientific investigation for modern therapeutic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vivo anti-tumour activity of Spica prunellae extract.
- To explore the preliminary mechanism underlying the anti-tumour effects of Spica prunellae extract.
Main Methods:
- A mouse model of transplanted T lymphoma cell EL-4 tumour was utilized.
- Tumour inhibition rates and apoptosis-related protein expression (Bcl-2, Bax) were assessed using immunohistochemistry.
Main Results:
- Spica prunellae extract exhibited significant tumour inhibitory effects.
- High-dose Spica prunellae extract significantly reduced tumour weight (P<0.01), with medium-dose also showing significant reduction (P<0.05).
- High-dose treatment led to increased Bcl-2 expression (47.54%) and decreased Bax expression (13.14%).
Conclusions:
- Spica prunellae extract possesses notable in vivo anti-tumour activity.
- The anti-tumour mechanism may involve the modulation of apoptosis-related proteins, specifically Bcl-2 and Bax.
- Further research into Spica prunellae as a potential anti-cancer agent is supported by these findings.

