Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

  Background: Edible mushroom, Pleurotus florida (P.florida) has been used by mankind in ancient times because of its nutritional values and medicinal benefits. Cytotoxicity of fractions isolated from P.florida has been reported. The aim of this study was to isolate some fractions from P.florida and evaluate its cytotoxicity effects on colon cancer cells.

  Methods: In this basic study, R5, R10, R30 and R100 fractions were prepared from P.florida and their cytotoxicity activity were evaluated on HT-29 and HGF cell lines. Also, pattern of cell death was determined. Tumoral (HT-29) and non-tumoral (HGF) cells were treated with various concentrations of isolated fractions. MTT assay was used for the evaluation of cell viability. Pattern of cell death was determined using annexin V and propidium iodine staining followed by FACS analyses. Obtained results were analyzed by SPSS software using ANOVA test.

  Results: R5, R10, R30 and R100 fractions inhibited cell viability of HT-29 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, but had less cytotoxicity on normal fibroblast-like cells (HGF). Their IC₅₀ values were 46%, 46%, 8% and 4%, respectively. R30 and R100 had the most anti-inhibitory effect. These fractions inhibited cell viability mostly via induction of early apoptosis in colon cancer HT-29 cells at 18%, 49%, 64% and 72%.

  Conclusion: Our results showed less sensitivity to R5, R10, R30 and R100 fraction in normal cells in comparison to tumoral cells. These fractions also had significant cytotoxic effect on colon cancer cells. Thus, isolated fractions may be considered candidates as chemotherapeutic agents in cancer treatment in future.