Potential therapeutic applications of Cistus laurifolius extract: Anti-proliferative, anti-cancer activity on MCF-7, and anti-microbial effects

Abstract

Cistus laurifolius L. is commonly used in Turkish folk medicine for the treatment of ulcers and various types of pain. In this study, the cytotoxic and apoptotic activities of C. laurifolius extract on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line, as well as its antimicrobial activity against eight microorganisms (Listeria monocytogenes, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, S. typhimurium, and Pediococcus acidilactici) were investigated. Different concentrations (100 µg/mL, 250 µg/mL, 500 µg/mL, and 1000 µg/mL) of the plant extract were applied for 24, 48, and 72 h, and its effects were determined using MTT, BrdU, and in situ apoptosis detection assays on human breast cancer cell MCF-7. Prolonged high-dose application of C. laurifolius extract led to decreased cell viability, inhibition of DNA synthesis, and induction of apoptosis. Its potential to induce cell death, which is the most desirable pathway for cancer treatment, is noteworthy alongside its cytotoxic activity. The antimicrobial effect of C. laurifolius extract varied depending on the Gram reaction of the microorganisms, with the extract being more effective against Gram-positive bacteria than Gram-negative bacteria. In conclusion, the C. laurifolius extract exhibits cytotoxic, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties.