Effects of the Cell Debris and Supernatant of Saccharomyces boulardii on 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a) Anthracene-Induced Breast Cancer in Rats

Abstract

Background: Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast with a demonstrated ability to inhibit different cancer cell lines. Objectives: The present study was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of the cell debris and supernatant of Saccharomyces boulardii on breast cancer induced by 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a) anthracene (DMBA) in rats. Methods: After culturing Saccharomyces boulardii on dextrose agar, the cell debris and supernatant were collected. The present study was conducted on 32 rats weighing 150 ± 20 g in four groups, including the injection control group, the cancer group, the group treated with the cell debris of Saccharomyces boulardii and the group treated with the supernatant. Hematological factors were evaluated after the treatment. Histopathological changes and concentrations of BAX and Bcl-2 were also assessed in the tumors. Results: Significant changes were observed in all the blood factors in the cancer compared to control group, whereas no significant changes were observed in the two groups treated with the supernatant and cell debris of Saccharomyces boulardii compared to in the control group except for a significant increase in MCV. Deformed mammary acini and an increased volume of milk glands confirmed the duct carcinoma. Although fewer pathological carcinogenic changes were observed in the two groups treated with the supernatant and cell debris of Saccharomyces boulardii, the appearance of the tissues was still inflamed. The concentration of BAX significantly increased and that of BCL-2 significantly decreased in the group treated with the Saccharomyces boulardii supernatant compared to in the cancer group. Conclusions: Saccharomyces boulardii and its supernatant could reduce the size of the tumor and inhibited its spread to other parts of the body by inducing apoptosis in the tumor cells.