Antioxidant and antiproliferative activity of Azadirachta indica A. Juss Extracts against cancer cell lines: An experimental study

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Management of cancer using medicinal plants is a common practice in Kenya. The rationale for use of these plants is not supported by empirical evidence.
Objective: This study evaluated the antioxidant and antiproliferative activity of Azadirachta indica.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Antiproliferative activity was determined against cervical (Hela) and prostate (DU145) cancer cells lines using MTT assay method. Combined active extracts were assayed in vitro using the checkerboard method. The in vitro antioxidant activity was assayed using 2, 2’ diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay.
RESULTS
Methanol RB and SB extracts reported high IC₅₀ values of 1.85 ± 0.01μg/ml and 2.59 ± 0.29μg/ml respectively, against Hela cancer cell line and IC50 values of 1.53 ± 0.07μg/ml and 3.26 ± 0.28μg/ml respectively, against DU145 cancer cell line. SB methanol extract exhibited antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 69.31μg/ml. Synergy was observed.
CONCLUSION
The results show the potential of A. indica in the management of cervical and prostate cancer.