Biologically Active Ajuga Species Extracts Modulate Supportive Processes for Cancer Cell Development

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products

Background:

• * Ajuga species possess traditional medicinal uses, including anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective properties.
• * Investigating the phytochemicals and anticancer potential of Romanian Ajuga species is crucial for drug discovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To determine the phytochemical profile of three Ajuga species: A. genevensis, A. chamaepitys, and A. laxmannii.
• * To evaluate the in vitro anticancer potential of these Ajuga extracts.

Main Methods:

• * Phytochemical analysis using HPLC/MS for polyphenols and iridoids.
• * In vitro antiproliferative assays (ELISA BrdU), Western Blot for NF-κB, and oxidative stress marker (MDA) quantification.
• * Assessment of antioxidant capacity (catalase activity, TAC).

Main Results:

• * Ajuga laxmannii extract demonstrated the highest phenolic and flavonoid content.
• * Ajuga genevensis extract was richest in iridoids.
• * Extracts inhibited cancer cell proliferation by downregulating NF-κB and modulating oxidative stress.

Conclusions:

• * Ajuga laxmannii exhibits the most potent antitumor activity among the studied species.
• * This species is a valuable source of bioactive compounds for potential cancer therapy.
• * Ajuga extracts may serve as adjuncts to conventional anticancer treatments.