Evaluation of the Anti-Proliferative Effects of a Green Tea and <i>Capsicum</i> Powder Extract in Cancer Cell Lines

Abstract

In recent years the use of natural supplements in order to prevent, treat or delay recurrence of cancer or reduce chemotherapy toxicity has attracted much attention. One such supplement is Capsol-T which consists of de-caffeinated green tea and chili pepper extracts. The aim of the study was the evaluation of Capsol-T effect on the proliferation of various cancer cell lines representing different cancer types. Cell lines that were used in the study were: DU145, LNCap, MCF7, HCT116 and MOR. The effect of various concentrations and incubation times of Capsol-T on cell viability was determined using the MTT method. The results do not show a common anti-proliferative pattern in all cancer cells. In some cell lines and certain concentrations cell growth was significantly decreased at 24 hr which became more evident at 48 hr. The role of Capsicum powder in cancer is unclear since both cancer cell proliferation and growth arrest have been demonstrated. Green tea on the other hand was found to decrease certain drugs’ bioavailability. Our results suggest that an anti-proliferative effect in certain types of cancer should not be generalized to other types as well. Different concentrations also affect the net result often having opposite effects. Overall, caution should be taken when using natural supplements for their anti-cancer effects.