Anti-tumor property of Argemone mexicana leaves methanol extracts against 7, 12- Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) induced mammary tumors in experimental rats

Background: Breast cancer is a complex and multistage process. Many natural compounds are available for an effective and efficient alternative method against breast cancer. This study focused on the anti-cancer activity of Argemone mexicana leaf extract on Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary tumors in experimental rats. Materials and Methods: Argemone mexicana Leaves (AML) were collected, extracted by soxhlet apparatus with methanol solvent, and analyzed by Gas Chromatography and Mass-Spectroscopy (GCMS). Healthy Female Sprague-Dawley rats (7-8 weeks and 100 ± 20 g) were divided in five groups and used to induce mammary tumors by DMBA [25 mg/kg/ Subcutaneous (s.c.)]. After developing a palpable nodule (10-12 weeks after DMBA), the rats were treated with AML extract [200 and 400 mg/kg/Body Weight (b.w.)] and Tamoxifen (TAM 10 mg/kg) orally for 12 weeks. Body weight, tumor weight and volume measurements, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant and tumor marker [Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)] levels, and histological investigations were assessed. Results: Following AML treatment, there was a reduction in weight and volume (P< 0.01) of breast tumor, as well as a significant decrease in levels of lipid peroxidation and tumor marker CEA (P < 0.001) and improved Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Reduced glutathione (GSH), and caspase levels (P < 0.001). In cytological results, AML improved the cellular architecture, and significant restoration in histopathological examinations revealed a tumor with minimal glandular epithelium proliferation, a decrease in mitotic figures, and nuclear alterations. Conclusion: The study suggests that AML extract has a chemoprotective effect against DMBA-induced mammary tumors in experimental animals, specifying its possibility as a therapeutic agent for breast cancer treatment.