The Cytotoxic Effects, Stimulation of p53, Caspase 3, and Bax by Potent Fractions Derived from the Leptastrea purpurea Sponge.

Breast cancer remains a significant challenge in oncology, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic options. This study investigates the anticancer effects of ethanol and n-hexane fractions derived from the methanol extract of the Leptastrea purpurea sponge on T47D breast cancer cells. Employing cytotoxicity assays (MTT and WST-1), mitochondrial transmembrane potential assays, and protein expression analysis of p53, Caspase-3, and Bax, we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying their potential anticancer activity. LC-MS/MS analysis was utilized to identify active compounds within the fractions. The results of the experiment demonstrate that the ethanol fraction exhibits significant efficacy against T47D breast cancer cells, with an IC₅₀ value of 25.36 μg/mL indicating potent cytotoxicity. At a concentration of 1508 μg/mL, it induces cell death in 95% of T47D cells, highlighting its specificity in targeting breast cancer cells. Comparative analysis with cisplatin reveals a 9.92% higher rate of cell death induced by the ethanol fraction, suggesting superior apoptosis induction capability. Flow cytometry results show increased p53 expression at concentrations of 754 and 1508 μg/mL, with a concentration-dependent pattern. Furthermore, notable increases in Bax protein expression at concentrations of 377 and 754 μg/mL suggest the involvement of the ethanol fraction in regulating apoptosis. In conclusion, the ethanol fraction demonstrates promising potential as a cytotoxic and apoptosis-inducing agent for breast cancer therapy. These findings underscore the importance of exploring natural products from marine sources as potential anticancer agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]