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Effects of aflatoxin B1 on human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells: cytotoxicity, oxidative damage, metabolic, and
Ahmed Aljazzar1, Waleed Rizk El-Ghareeb2,3, Wageh Sobhy Darwish4
1Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, P.O. Box: 400, Al Hofuf, 31982, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a potent mycotoxin that is commonly produced by molds such as Aspergillus (A.) flavus and A. parasiticus. AFB1 is associated with several health adverse effects in humans including mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. Aflatoxin is commonly secreted in the milk leading to deleterious effects on breast tissue and potential nursing infants. However, the effects of aflatoxins, particularly AFB1, on the breast cells are less investigated. In this study, AFB1-associated effects on human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) were investigated. AFB1 caused significant cytotoxicity on MCF-7 cells. Such cytotoxicity had a positive correlation with the induction of oxidative stress. In addition, AFB1 caused significant transcriptomic alterations in xenobiotics and drug-metabolizing enzymes, transporters, and antioxidant enzymes. Besides, AFB1 upregulated pro-inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor-α and cyclooxygenase-2 with a significant reduction of mRNA expressions of the immunity-related genes including interleukins 8 and 10.
Insights
Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure causes significant harm to human breast cancer cells, inducing oxidative stress and altering gene expression. This mycotoxin impacts cellular functions, inflammation, and immune responses within breast tissue.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a toxic mold byproduct linked to human health risks like cancer.
- AFB1 contamination in milk poses risks to breast tissue and infants.
- Limited research exists on AFB1's specific effects on breast cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of AFB1 on human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7).
- To understand AFB1's impact on cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and gene expression in breast cells.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of MCF-7 cells to AFB1.
- Assessment of cytotoxicity and oxidative stress.
- Transcriptomic analysis of gene expression changes.
Main Results:
- AFB1 induced significant cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells, correlating with increased oxidative stress.
- AFB1 altered gene expression related to drug metabolism and antioxidant defenses.
- Pro-inflammatory markers (TNF-α, COX-2) were upregulated, while immune genes (IL-8, IL-10) were downregulated.
Conclusions:
- AFB1 exerts cytotoxic and oxidative stress effects on human breast cancer cells.
- AFB1 significantly impacts cellular pathways, including xenobiotic metabolism and inflammation.
- AFB1 exposure alters immune gene expression in breast cancer cells, suggesting potential immunomodulatory effects.
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