Elderberry extracts exhibit cytotoxicityTriterpenoid Acids as Important Antiproliferative Constituents of European Elderberry Fruits.
We explored the impact of elderberry extracts on breast cancer, particularly focusing on a human breast cancer cell line known as MCF-7. Our study involved examining different extracts of elderberries, specifically ethyl acetate and aqueous acetone, to assess their cytotoxic effects.
Through rigorous testing, we found that the ethyl acetate extract exhibited significant cytotoxic activity, suggesting that the nonpolar compounds were the key players in fighting cancer cells. Among these compounds, we identified triterpenoids, like ursolic and oleanolic acids, with ursolic acid standing out as particularly effective. It demonstrated impressive inhibitory concentrations of 10.7 µg/mL on MCF-7 cells.
Importantly, while the aqueous acetone extract showed some activity, it was not as potent as the ethyl acetate extract. Our findings provide valuable insights, showcasing elderberry's potential as a natural source of compounds that may help in combating breast cancer.
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Elderberry's potential in breast cancerA Comprehensive Study on the Biological Activity of Elderberry Extract and Cyanidin 3--Glucoside and Their Interactions with Membranes and Human Serum Albumin.
We explored the effects of elderberry extract on breast cancer, focusing on its predominant component, cyanidin 3-glucoside. Our research revealed how these compounds interact with tumor cell membranes, promoting a more rigid structure. This rigidity could play a pivotal role in exhibiting both anticancer and antioxidant properties.
Additionally, we noted that elderberry extract showed notable antioxidant activity, especially against liposomal membranes, and effectively inhibited specific enzymes linked to inflammation. The anticancer activity was further confirmed in tests involving human breast adenocarcinoma cells, showcasing its potential benefits in cancer treatment.
An interesting aspect of elderberry extract is its ability to form lipid aggregates, which could be utilized to deliver active biological substances effectively. Among the formulations tested, multilayered liposomes demonstrated the highest rates of encapsulation. Overall, our study presents valuable insights into how elderberry may impact breast cancer and opens avenues for further research into its applications as a complementary treatment option.
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Elderflower extracts inhibit estradiolEffects of Phytoestrogen Extracts Isolated from Elder Flower on Hormone Production and Receptor Expression of Trophoblast Tumor Cells JEG-3 and BeWo, as well as MCF7 Breast Cancer Cells.
We explored how extracts from elderflower, rich in phytoestrogens, influence hormone production and the behavior of certain cancer cells, particularly focusing on breast cancer. The study involved culturing trophoblast tumor cells and MCF7 breast cancer cells, exposing them to various concentrations of elderflower extracts while keeping some as untreated control groups. By measuring hormone levels and assessing receptor expressions, we obtained a clearer picture of the extracts’ effects.
The findings revealed that elderflower extracts significantly inhibited the production of estradiol, a key hormone, in all cell types tested. Interestingly, we noted an increase in estrogen receptor (ER) expression in one type of trophoblast cell (JEG-3) and a decrease in ER expression along with an upregulation of progesterone receptor (PR) expression in MCF7 cells. This dual action presents a more complex interaction than initially anticipated, suggesting the potential of elderflower extracts in breast cancer prevention and treatment.
It’s worth noting that while enterolactone and enterodiol, also tested in the study, displayed different effects by inhibiting both ER and PR expression, elderflower extracts showed promising results by specifically affecting hormone levels and receptor expressions. Although the full therapeutic potential of elderflower remains to be confirmed through further investigation, these early findings provide a hopeful glimpse at how this natural extract might play a role in breast cancer care.
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