Apoptosis Induction by Plectranthus Amboinicus and Hibiscus Rosasinensis Extracts in HepG2 Cells: Insights into Cytotoxicity and Gene Regulation

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly aggressive cancer associated with chronic liver diseases, posing significant treatment challenges. This study explores the apoptotic potential of ethanolic leaf extracts from Plectranthus amboinicus and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis on HepG2 cell lines, aiming to elucidate their mechanisms of action and comparative efficacy. Both extracts underwent phytochemical analysis, antioxidant activity assessment using the DPPH assay, and safety evaluation through haemolytic activity determination. Apoptosis was visualized using acridine orange/ethidium bromide dual staining and quantified with propidium iodide/annexin V-FITC staining and flow cytometry. The regulation of key apoptotic genes, BAX and BCL-2, was analysed in treated HepG2 cells. Preliminary results indicate that both extracts exhibit significant antioxidant activity, with P. amboinicus demonstrating robust effects and a favourable safety profile. In contrast, H. rosasinensis showed increased cytotoxicity, raising concerns regarding its therapeutic application. This comparative analysis highlights the potential of P. amboinicus as a promising candidate for novel HCC therapeutic strategies, while underscoring the need for further investigation into the apoptotic mechanisms and safety of H. rosasinensis. The P. amboinicus extract effectively induces apoptosis in HepG2 cells by modulating the expression of key apoptosis regulators, BAX and BCL-2, without significant haemolytic toxicity at lower concentrations. These findings provide a strong foundation for further research into the therapeutic applications of P. amboinicus in liver cancer treatment.