Ethanol extracts of sp. regulate cyclooxygenase-2 and E-cadherin expression in gastric cancer MKN74 cell line and enhance doxorubicin toxicity.

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death. Its aetiology is multifactorial, but the major risk factor is a high in salt diet. During gastric carcinogenesis, cadherin-1 (CDH1) down-expression and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) overexpression may be observed. The intensity of these alterations contributes to the GC invasion, its metastases and poor prognosis. As the diet plays a significant role in the aetiology of GC, it is reasonable to include the nutritional chemoprevention agents. One of the plant genus demonstrating chemoprotective properties is genus, which includes garlic. The relationship between CDH1 and COX2 in GC cells treated with species extract has never been evaluated.

METHODS

In this study, the MKN28 and MKN74 GC cell lines were treated with ethanol extracts of L., Lam., L. (from Malaysia and Poland), Rendle and L. The cytotoxicity of the extracts and their influence on COX2 and CDH1 mRNA and protein expression were evaluated as well as their influence on doxorubicin's (DOX) efficacy - a drug that has been used in GC treatment.

RESULTS

Among the tested species, ethanol extracts of L. (Poland and Malaysia), Rendle and L. influenced the levels of CDH1 and COX2, but only in the MKN74 cell line. Thus, it is possible that tumours with increased COX2 expression will be more susceptible to garlic treatment. Observed phenomenon was independent of extract's toxicity. In comparison to DOX, tested extracts were more toxic. Moreover, revealed synergistic effect with the drug.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the results indicate the potential application of genus to GC chemoprevention and treatment support through CDH restoration and COX2 downregulation. This issue needs further investigations as it might be used in clinics.