Cytotoxic Effects of Helichrysum arenarium on HepG2 Cells

Abstract

Aim: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The search for natural compounds with potential anticancer properties has gained increasing attention. Helichrysum arenarium is a medicinal plant known for its bioactive compounds, but its cytotoxic effects on liver cancer cells remain unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of Helichrysum arenarium extract on HepG2 liver cancer cells by assessing cell viability and morphological changes. Material and Method: HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations (0.025–0.1 mg/mL) of Helichrysum arenarium extract for 24 hours. Morphological alterations were observed using phase-contrast microscopy, while cell viability was assessed using the WST-1 assay. Statistical analysis was performed using oneway ANOVA with Tukey’s post-hoc test, considering p <0.05 as statistically significant. Results: Helichrysum arenarium exhibited a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on HepG2 cells. Morphological observations indicated apoptotic-like changes, and the WST-1 assay showed a significant decrease in cell viability, with the highest concentration (0.1 mg/mL) reducing viability to below 30% of the control (p <0.05). Conclusion: These findings suggest that Helichrysum arenarium exhibits potent cytotoxic effects on HepG2 liver cancer cells, likely through potential apoptotic pathways. Further studies are needed to elucidate the molecular pathways involved and to evaluate its potential as a therapeutic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Keywords

• Helichrysum arenarium
• HepG2 cell line
• hepatocellular carcinoma
• cytotoxicity; medicinal p

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