Withaferin A-Induced Apoptosis in Human Breast Cancer Cells Is Mediated by Reactive Oxygen Species
2011

Withaferin A Induces Apoptosis in Human Breast Cancer Cells

publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hahm Eun-Ryeong, Moura Michelle B., Kelley Eric E., Van Houten Bennett, Shiva Sruti, Singh Shivendra V.

Primary Institution: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Hypothesis

The study investigates whether Withaferin A (WA) induces apoptosis in human breast cancer cells through reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.

Conclusion

Withaferin A induces apoptosis in human breast cancer cells by generating reactive oxygen species and inhibiting mitochondrial respiration.

Supporting Evidence

  • WA treatment caused a dose-dependent increase in reactive oxygen species in breast cancer cells.
  • Stable overexpression of Cu,Zn-SOD reduced WA-induced apoptosis.
  • WA treatment inhibited oxidative phosphorylation in breast cancer cells.

Takeaway

Withaferin A, a natural compound, can help kill breast cancer cells by making them produce harmful substances called reactive oxygen species.

Methodology

The study used human breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 to assess the effects of Withaferin A on apoptosis and mitochondrial function.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on in vitro models, which may not fully represent in vivo conditions.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0023354

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