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Safranal induces DNA double-strand breakage and ER-stress-mediated cell death in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Ala'a Al-Hrout1, Amphun Chaiboonchoe2, Basel Khraiwesh2,3

  • 1Biology Department, College of Science, UAE University, P.O. Box 15551, Al-Ain, UAE.

Scientific Reports
|November 18, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Safranal, a compound from saffron, shows promise as an anticancer therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It induces cancer cell death by triggering endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR).

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents poor prognoses, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Alternative treatments are crucial for effective HCC management and improved patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the anticancer effects of safranal on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying safranal's anti-HCC activity, including its impact on cell cycle, DNA damage, and apoptosis.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro cell-based assays (cell cycle, immunoblotting, apoptosis assays).
  • In silico analyses and network analysis.
  • Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to identify affected pathways.

Main Results:

  • Safranal induced distinct cell cycle arrest at G2/M and S phases.
  • Safranal demonstrated a pro-apoptotic effect via activation of caspases, indicating ER stress-mediated apoptosis.
  • Gene set enrichment analysis revealed upregulation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway.

Conclusions:

  • Safranal exhibits significant anticancer effects against HCC cells.
  • Safranal-induced apoptosis is mediated through endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR).
  • Safranal represents a potential therapeutic candidate for HCC treatment.

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