Evaluation of anti-metastatic potential of mangosteen extract via targeting the CXCL-8/CXCR2 chemokines signalling in oral cancer cell line - An Ex vivo study

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer is a significant global health challenge, with high mortality rates primarily due to late diagnosis and limited treatment options. The CXCL-8/CXCR2 chemokine signaling pathway is known to play a crucial role in cancer metastasis. This study evaluates the anti-metastatic potential of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) extract by targeting this pathway in an oral cancer cell line (KB).

Methods: Oral cancer cells were treated with varying concentrations of mangosteen extract. Cell viability was assessed using an MTT assay, while migration was evaluated through a scratch wound healing assay. Gene expression of CXCL-8 and CXCR2 was analyzed using real-time PCR. Morphological changes indicative of apoptosis were observed via phase contrast microscopy.

Results: The mangosteen extract exhibited a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect, with an IC50 value of 12.531 ± 1.139 μg/ml. Treated cells displayed significant apoptosis, including cell shrinkage and membrane blebbing. The extract also inhibited cell migration and downregulated CXCL-8 and CXCR2 gene expression (p<0.05), indicating its anti-metastatic potential.

Conclusion: Mangosteen extract shows promising anti-metastatic and pro-apoptotic effects in oral cancer cell lines by modulating the CXCL-8/CXCR2 pathway. Further in vivo studies and clinical trials are necessary to validate these findings and explore its potential as a natural adjunct therapy for oral cancer.