In vitro cytotoxic and antiproliferative activity of an aqueous extract from Phyllanthus comosus

Abstract

Introduction: Ever since the onset of ancient medical practice, plants have been used to treat a variety of conditions, including infectious communicable diseases and cancer. A large number of reports are available about the biological properties of the genus Phyllantus.

Objective: Evaluate the cytotoxic and antiproliferative activity of an aqueous extract of Phyllanthus comosus on three cell lines: two of tumoral origin (SiHa and HeLa) and one of non-tumoral origin (Vero).

Methods: Cytotoxic activity was evaluated by the MTT method, and antiproliferative capacity by colony inhibition detection or clonogenic assay. Mean cytotoxic concentration (CC₅₀), selective index and cell proliferation reduction percentage were some of the values taken into account.

Results: The cytotoxicity assay obtained similar CC₅₀ values for both tumor cell lines, whereas the value for the Vero line was three times less toxic, with a selectivity index above three. The clonogenic assay revealed proliferation inhibition in the tumor cell lines, whereas no inhibition of colony forming capacity was observed in Vero cells.

Conclusions: The P. comosus extract is more cytotoxic for tumoral cell lines SiHa and HeLa than for non-tumor Vero cells. Additionally, inhibition of the formation of cell clones in both tumor cell lines is evidence of its antiproliferative and selective action, substantiating its in vitro antitumor potential.