Zerumbone induces G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway in Jurkat cell line

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Cell Biology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Leukemia, particularly T-cell leukemia, remains a significant health concern requiring novel therapeutic strategies.
• Natural compounds are increasingly explored for their potential anticancer activities and favorable safety profiles.
• Zerumbone (ZER), a sesquiterpene from Zingiber zerumbet, has demonstrated various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the anticancer properties of zerumbone (ZER) against the human T-cell (Jurkat) leukemia cell line.
• To evaluate the selective cytotoxicity of ZER towards cancer cells compared to normal cells.
• To elucidate the mechanism of action of ZER in inducing cancer cell death.

Main Methods:

• Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay.
• Cell cycle arrest was analyzed via flow cytometry.
• Apoptosis induction was confirmed by measuring caspase-3 and -9 activity.
• Microscopic evaluations were performed to observe morphological changes.

Main Results:

• ZER exhibited selective dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity against Jurkat cells (IC50 values ranging from 5.4 to 11.9 μg/mL).
• ZER did not show adverse effects on normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).
• ZER induced significant G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via the intrinsic pathway, evidenced by caspase-3 and -9 activation.

Conclusions:

• ZER possesses selective anticancer properties against Jurkat leukemia cells.
• ZER induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, suggesting a potential chemotherapeutic mechanism.
• ZER demonstrates a favorable safety profile, making it a promising candidate for further development as a leukemia treatment.