Investigação do efeito anti-tumoral da genisteína em câncer de mama: um estudo in vitro

Abstract

Cancer can be cited as one of the most frequent causes of death worldwide. It is one of the most serious public health problems in developed and developing countries. Soybean has acquired a prominent position in the Western market over the last few years because of its medicinal properties. Phytoestrogens are important soy derived compounds, which bound to estrogen receptors (ER) mimicking the action of estradiol. Anti-carcinogenic action, reduction of some symptoms associated with menopause, prevention of osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases are some of their positive results already evidenced. Genistein is a phytoestrogen of great therapeutic importance and has been attracting scientific interest for its possible benefits for preventing several diseases, including cancer. The aim of this study was to compare the selective anti-proliferative effect of genistein on mammary carcinoma and human fibroblasts. Cell lineages of mammary carcinoma (MCF-7) and human fibroblast (CCD1059sK) were grown in microculture plates, treated with 10 nM estradiol and with increasing concentrations of genistein (0.01, 0.1, 1.0, 10, and 100 μM), for 24, 48, and 72 h, to evaluate the effects of these substances on cells viability and morphology. Analysis of cultures by image revealed that genistein promoted characteristic morphological changes of cell death by autophagy in MCF-7 cancer cells. Genistein did not affect the viability of fibroblasts culture. The results achieved were favorable to validate genistein as a potential anti-tumor agent.