Crithmum maritimum Improves Sorafenib Sensitivity by Decreasing Lactic Acid Fermentation and Inducing a Pro-Hepatocyte Marker Profile in Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Abstract

Edible plants are gaining importance as an integrative therapy for many chronic diseases, including cancer. We first reported that the edible wild plant Crithmum maritimum L. inhibits the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells by exerting a multitarget action on cellular metabolism and bioenergetic profile. Here, we show that Crithmum maritimum ethyl acetate extract significantly increases the responsiveness of HCC cells to the chemotherapeutic drug sorafenib by reducing lactic acid fermentation and inducing a pro-hepatocyte biomarker profile. Our findings strengthen the role of Crithmum maritimum L. as a valuable nutraceutical tool to support pharmacological therapeutic interventions in HCC.