Characterization of Limosilactobacillus fermentum for anti-cancer activity using HCT 116 from Egyptian dairy products

Abstract Background Colon cancer (CRC) is one of the most significant health problems worldwide. Using Exopolysaccharides (EPSs)-produced probiotics as alternative colon cancer therapies depends on an anti-tumor effect and influences the immune system. This study isolated different probiotic EPS lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strain producers from traditional Egyptian fermented dairy products to evaluate their antiproliferative and anti-tumor effects on the HCT-116 colon cancer cell line. Results EPS LAB were studied for their probiotic and antioxidant activity. The cytotoxicity effects on HCT-116 cells were analyzed. Two isolates Limosilactobacillus fermentum RE 245 (Accession No. PQ215810), and Limosilactobacillus fermentum RE 280 (Accession No. PQ215848) showed resistance against gastrointestinal conditions: low pH (> 40%), bile salt-resistant (57.36% and 76.21%, respectively), more than 90% when exposed to simulated gastric juice conditions. Isolates RE245 and RE 280 had the strongest inhibitory effect on HCT-116 cells reaching 86% and 70%, respectively, with an increase in the ratio of apoptosis induction. The induction of apoptosis was achieved via the up-regulation of IL-2 and the downregulation of BCL-2, PARK, TARC, LIF, IL-4, IL-6, CD1A, and CD1B genes in HCT-116 cells. Conclusion From the EPS LAB isolates’ results, they might be an excellent candidate for functional food production and as a potential alternative treatment to treat colon cancer.