The Role of Folic Acid on PC3 Prostate Cancer Cell Line

Abstract

Aim: Prostate cancer (PCa), one of the most common malignant solid tumors, has become a significant and rapidly increasing global health concern for men. One of the vitamins in the B group that is essential in decreasing the risk of cancer is folic acid (FA). However, the protective effects of FA against PCa are insufficiently examined, and the underlying mechanism is still unknown. In this study, androgen-nonresponsive (PC3) human PCa was used to get a better understanding of the effect of FA on cell proliferation. Material and Method: In the present study, the MTT assay was used to assess FA's inhibitory effect on cellular proliferation. Additionally, all groups underwent the TUNEL immunofluorescence staining procedure to identify apoptosis in the PC3 cell line. Results: The most appropriate cytotoxic dose was determined to be the 24-hour FA values. When apoptotic TUNEL staining was evaluated in the PC3 cell line, FA significantly increased apoptosis. There was not a significant difference observed between the docetaxel (Dtx) and FA groups in terms of TUNEL-positive cell immunoreactivity in the PC3 cell line. There was no apparent distinction in the immunreactivity intensity of TUNEL-positive cells in these groups. Conclusion: The present study provides a fresh perspective on the fundamental mechanism underlying FA's capability to prevent PC3 cancer cells from proliferating. Our findings suggest that FA effectively inhibits PC3 cell line proliferation through the upregulation of apoptosis. Consequently, FA may be a potential novel cytotoxic and therapeutic strategy in the treatment of PCa disease.