Oleocanthal Induces Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Breast Cancer Cell Lines Depending on c-MET Expression

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Oncology

Background:

• Oleocanthal (OC), a phenolic compound from extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• OC is a potential anticancer agent, but its effects on cancer cell metabolism and mitochondria are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the metabolic and mitochondrial effects of OC on different breast cancer molecular subtypes.
• To determine the correlation between OC responsiveness and MET expression in breast cancer cells.

Main Methods:

• Treatment of triple-negative (MDA-MB-231) and luminal (MCF7, T47D) breast cancer cell lines with OC.
• Evaluation of cell viability, cell cycle, metabolic enzyme expression, mitochondrial respiration, and mitochondrial network organization.
• Assessment of MET expression levels.

Main Results:

• OC responsiveness varied across subtypes, with MDA-MB-231 cells showing the highest and T47D cells the lowest response.
• Mitochondrial function was impaired in MDA-MB-231 cells, enhanced in MCF7 cells (with fragmentation), and preserved in T47D cells.
• OC effects correlated with MET expression, especially in triple-negative breast cancer.

Conclusions:

• Oleocanthal modulates cancer cell metabolism and mitochondrial dynamics.
• OC shows particular relevance in MET-high triple-negative breast cancers, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.