Possible induction of apoptotic and necrotic death pathways in lung cancer cells by Clinopodium vulgare L. and phenolic acids and flavonoids detection by LC-MS-MS

Abstract

The objective of this research was to ascertain the phenolic content and antiproliferation and inducing of apoptosis activities of methanol extract of Clinopodium vulgare (CVME) on lung cancer cells. Initially, the viability and proliferation of lung cancer cells treated with CVME were assessed
using MTT staining. AnnexinV/Propodium iodide fluorescent staining was then utilized to scan apoptotic cells with a cell counting device. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of proapoptotic Bax and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 were assessed via real-time PCR. Additionally, LC-MS-MS was used to determine
the phenolic content of CVME. Following the administration of varying doses of CVME, it was found that the viability and proliferation of lung cancer cells reduced. The Bax and Bcl-2 mRNA levels did not significantly alter, however it was demonstrated that the cells killed by the necrotic pathway rather than
by apoptosis. The main components of flavonoids and phenolic acids in CVME were found to be resveratrol and caffeic acid, respectively. Consequently, it can be said that lung cancer cells are inhibited by CVME, an abundant source of phenolics, via the necrotic pathway.