In vitro Cytotoxicity of Activated Carbon from Musa Acuminate Fruit Peel Against HepG-2 Cells

Abstract

Background: Cancer is a leading cause of global mortality, necessitating the development of new therapeutic options. Plant-based medicines offer advantages over conventional drugs, prompting investigations into their cytotoxic potential. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of activated carbon derived from M. acuminate fruit peel against HepG-2 cells. Methods: Activated carbon was prepared from M. acuminate fruit peel, and its cytotoxic effects were assessed using MTT assay, DAPI/PI/EtBr staining, and comet assay. Statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate significance. Results: Dose-dependent cytotoxicity was observed, with a notable reduction in cell viability with approximately 50% cytotoxicity observed at a concentration of 86.74 μg/ml after 48 hours. Activated carbon significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) synthesis, mitochondrial membrane potential attenuation, induction of apoptotic morphology, and caspase-3 activation in HepG-2 cells. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the potential of activated carbon as a natural product source for developing novel cancer medicines. Its cytotoxic effects against HepG-2 cells, mediated via ROS-mediated mitochondrial pathway and caspase-3 activation, warrant further investigation for therapeutic applications.