Cytotoxic Activity Characterization Of Scorpion Venom Components On Cancer Cell Line

Résumé: Introduction: Scorpion venom is a rich source of bioactive peptides and toxins with therapeutic effects against different diseases including cancer. The present study was designed to elucidate the cytotoxic activity of isolated fraction F3 from Androctonus australs hector (Aah) scorpion venom and investigate the involved mechanism in colorectal tumor cell line HCT116. Materials and Methods: The MTT assay and clonogenic assay were performed to assess cytotoxicity and inhibition of cell growth respectively. Cell apoptosis induction was detected by Hoechst 33258 staining and caspase 3 activity. In addition, ROS (Reactive oxygen species) and RNS (reactive nitrogen species) generation were measured by fluorescent dye (DCFH-DA) and Griess assay. The obtained results revealed a remarkable and concentration-dependent cytotoxic effect of F3 fraction against HCT116 cells (Inhibitory concentration 50 = 13.46 μg/mL) which was in accordance with a significant decrease in colony surviving fractions (SFIC50= 5.43 ± 2.12 %). Results: The morphologic alterations confirmed the cell growth inhibition.The Aah venom components displayed nuclear alterations characterized by chromatin condensation, membrane blebbing, cell shrinkage and compartmentalization of the dead cells into apoptotic bodies in accordance with the decrease of cell viability indicating the involvement of apoptosis in this cytotoxicity. Otherwise, the F3 fraction induces the expression of caspase 3, a key protease required for the execution of apoptosis. Enhancement in the intracellular levels of ROS and RNS were also observedin colorectal tumor cells and could be considered as a key early signal to F3 fraction-induced apoptosis. Conclusion: Hence F3 fraction could serve as potential therapeutic agents due to their apoptotic effects on cancer cells.

Publié dans la revue: Algerian Journal of Health Sciences