IN-VITRO ANTI COLON CANCER ACTIVITY OF ARAUCARIA HETEROPHYLLA LEAVES EXTRACT AGAINST HT-29 CELLINES

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health concern, representing one of the most prevalent malignant neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. It typically develops from adenomatous polyps through a complex multistep process involving genetic and epigenetic alterations. The disease predominantly affects individuals over 50, though increasing cases are being reported in younger populations. Risk factors include family history, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high consumption of red meat, and low-fiber diet. The five-year survival rate varies significantly based on the stage at diagnosis, highlighting the critical importance of early detection and intervention. Cell lines are valuable tools for investigating various aspects of colorectal cancer, including its genetics, drug responses, metastatic potential, and molecular mechanisms [1]. They provide a controlled environment for researchers to conduct experiments and develop a better understanding of this disease. HT-29 is a well-known and widely used human colorectal cancer cell line. The shade dried leaves of Araucaria heterophylla was subjected to successive solvent extraction method by using n-Hexane in soxhlet extraction. The in-vitro assessment of anti-cancer activity was conducted using the HT-29 cell line, which is specific to colon cancer. N-Hexane extract of Araucaria heterophylla Leaves, exhibited significant anti-cancer activity. A notable decrease in cell viability was observed, with the extent of reduction being dependent on both the duration of exposure and the dosage administered was observed.