Mitigating CYP3A4-mediated aflatoxin toxicity with algal-derived Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin: Production and...

The present research explores the cytotoxic mechanism of protein Cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4) with aflatoxin (AFB1), a potent carcinogen. Cytochrome P450 is an essential enzyme involved in drug metabolism, however epoxide formation due to the binding event of AFB1 leads to cell cytotoxicity. In this direction, our study elucidates the scavenging effect of algal-derived Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin (SCC) over AFB1 cytotoxicity. Cyanobacteria/ microalgae-derived SCC have garnered attention due to its diverse applications in pharmacological and food industries. This work began with the production of SCC from Spirulina and Chlorella sp. over a stipulated period of growth. Subsequently, the study delved into the interplay between SCC and the carcinogenic impact of AFB1 on the CYP3A4 enzyme. Computational studies demonstrated SCC binding and blocking mechanisms against AFB1. Our research intended to determine whether CYP3A4 can bind to SCC that, in turn, act as an interceptor for AFB1 or influence the metabolism of bound AFB1. Current results support that SCC is an effective AFB1 trap as it shows interactions with AFB1. These findings would open up new avenues in clinical biology/pharmacology to further explore the mechanisms of action of CYP3A4 with AFB1 and SCC, offering promising prospects for abating cell cytotoxicity.