Breast cancer remains a significant public health problem worldwide and requires the investigation of new treatment methods. Lichens, symbiotic organisms rich in bioactive compounds, have emerged as promising sources of natural anticancer agents. This study investigates the anticancer effects of lichen metabolites derived from Xanthoparmelia wyomingica on breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB231. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to measure specific lichen acids in the extract; this revealed the presence of Gyrophoric acid (GA), Norstictic acid (NA), Protocetraric acid (PA), Stictic acid (SA), and Usnic acid (UA). Cytotoxicity analysis showed significant reductions in cell viability, particularly in the MDA-MB231 cell line, with IC50 values ranging from 21.67 to 36.71 µg/mL. Molecular docking studies elucidated the interaction mechanisms between these metabolites and target proteins, highlighting NA as the most promising compound with the lowest binding energy (−9.5 kcal/mol) and inhibition constant (0.108755 μM). ADMET analysis of the molecules was then performed. Molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) and HOMO-LUMO analysis provided further information about the reactivity and electron distribution of the compounds. This study has the potential to provide novel therapeutic agents for breast cancer to tackle the increasing resistance to conventional therapies. Lichen metabolites enable the development of effective therapies in targeting aggressive subtypes such as triple-negative breast cancer with limited treatment options. This research highlights the anticancer properties of lichen metabolites and their potential in the development of innovative strategies for breast cancer treatment. The findings offer a promising avenue to address the urgent need for effective therapies in oncology.
Read full abstract