In vivo evaluation of Eclipta alba extract as anticancer and multidrug resistance reversal agent

The present study investigates the anticancer and multidrug resistance (MDR) reversal potential of hydro-alcoholic Eclipta alba extract (EAE) through in vivo experiments. Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF) were used for liver cancer induction in animal model, whereas for MDR induction, AAF was used. The level of antioxidant enzymes was studied in serum along with biochemical parameters. Cancer and MDR-induced liver cells have higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and, in turn, are responsible for the maintenance of the cancer phenotype. Treatment with EAE declines the ROS level and revealed the ROS scavenging properties. Alfa feto protein levels were found to increase significantly in cancer-induced animals confirming induction and progression of liver cancer, EAE treatment was found to bring back the altered levels within normal range indicating the therapeutic effect of plant extract over liver cancer. Zymogram showed the inhibition of MMPs and RT-PCR analysis revealed that the mRNA expression of nuclear factor-kB was markedly decreased upon EAE treatment. Further, our results showed that EAE could significantly inhibit mdr1 gene encode P-glycoprotein expression. Our data suggest that EAE is a novel anticancer and potent MDR reversal agent and may be a potential adjunctive agent for tumor chemotherapy.