Aconitine Impedes Cell Motility in MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells: A Potential Therapeutic Avenue

Purpose: Aconitine, a potent alkaloid from Aconitum plants, has shown promising anticancer properties. The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of aconitine on lateral migration, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells. Material and Methods: A WST-1 viability assay was conducted to determine the effect of aconitine on the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells. Following treatment with non-cytotoxic doses of aconitine, lateral migration was evaluated through wound healing assays. Additionally, gelatin zymography was conducted to analyze MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity and secretion levels. Results: Aconitine concentrations up to 200 μM did not significantly affect cell viability for up to 72 hours, whereas higher doses (400-600 μM) reduced viability in a time-dependent manner. Aconitine at 200 μM showed a trend towards decreased lateral motility, with a significant reduction at 9 hours post-treatment. Gelatin zymography revealed no alterations in MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity or secretion levels following aconitine treatment. Conclusion: Aconitine demonstrates limited efficacy in modulating the migratory capacity of MDA-MB-231 cells and does not affect gelatinase activity. Further investigation into underlying mechanisms is necessary, potentially leading to novel therapeutic strategies for triple-negative breast cancer.