Cytotoxicity of Rhein from Laxatives and Its Interaction with Drug Resistance
Author Information
Author(s): van Gorkom B A P, Timmer-Bosscha H, de Jong S, van der Kolk D M, Kleibeuker J H, de Vries E G E
Primary Institution: University Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
The study aims to analyze the interference of anthranoids with natural defense mechanisms and the direct cytotoxicity of anthranoids in cancer cell lines expressing these mechanisms.
Conclusion
Rhein, the active metabolite of sennoside laxatives, is a substrate for the MRP1 drug efflux pump and is capable of inducing apoptosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Rhein was less cytotoxic in the MRP1 overexpressing GLC4/ADR cell line compared to GLC4.
- Multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 inhibition with MK571 increased rhein cytotoxicity.
- Rhein induced apoptosis but did not intercalate DNA.
Takeaway
This study found that rhein, a substance in some laxatives, can kill cancer cells but is less effective when certain proteins that pump drugs out of cells are active.
Methodology
The study used various cancer cell lines to assess the cytotoxicity of rhein and its interaction with drug efflux mechanisms.
Limitations
The study did not explore the long-term effects of rhein or its impact on human subjects.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website