The effect of Pogostone on viability, membrane integrity, and apoptosis of liver cancer cells

OBJECTIVE: The incidence of liver cancer is still high in many countries, including Iran. Drug resistance and various side effects are the main obstacles to treating this cancer. Herbs, which are traditionally used, are now widely regarded as treatment options for cancer. Pogostone is a natural substance isolated from Indian mint (Pogostemon cablin) and has various medicinal activities. This study aimed to determine the effect of Pogostone on liver cancer cell line (viability, membrane integrity, and apoptosis). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The liver cancer cell line was prepared from Pasteur Institute of Iran and treated with appropriate concentrations of Pogostone. Cytotoxicity was determined by MTT, trypan blue, and lactate dehydrogenase assay. Apoptosis induction was evaluated by diphenylamine assay, Annexin V-FITC staining and a Real-time PCR test. Data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software using Tukey’s test one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS: After all three time periods, a significant decrease in viability was observed (p