We explored the effects of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) supplementation on a human glioblastoma cell line known as U-87 MG. Our main goal was to understand how cobalamin, particularly in combination with pyridoxine (vitamin B6), influences cell viability and the process of cell death, known as apoptosis.
Our approach involved treating the glioblastoma cells with varying concentrations of vitamin B12 over a period of 24 to 72 hours. We assessed the health of the cells and their progression through the cell cycle using methods like spectrophotometry and flow cytometry. We also measured specific proteins associated with cell survival and death through western blot analysis.
We found that while vitamin B6 supplementation led to decreased cell viability and increased signs of apoptosis, the role of vitamin B12 was less clear. It appeared that cobalamin did not significantly enhance or inhibit cell death on its own. However, when combined with pyridoxine, it seemed to reduce the cytotoxic effects of vitamin B6.
In summary, while vitamin B12 in isolation did not show a direct benefit for the glioblastoma cells in our study, its potential to influence the effects of other vitamins highlights a complex interaction deserving of further exploration.
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