Cytotoxic and apoptotic effect of Lemna minor L. extract on human osteosarcoma (Saos-2)

Osteosarcoma is a malignant form of bone cancer that responds poorly to chemotherapy and has a significant incidence of recurrence. Recent studies suggest the need for new natural agents to support treatment. Lemna minor is a macrophyte frequently used in traditional treatments and is known to have high antioxidant and antimicrobial properties due to the phenolic compounds it contains. This study investigated the anticancer activity of the L. minor on Saos-2 cancer cells and the apoptosis pathways. L. minor was extracted in ethanol by microwave technique. The extract showed cytotoxic activity (59-79%) on Saos-2 cells but did not harm healthy human bone cells (hFOB). Expression of bax, bcl-2, caspase-3, and caspase-8 genes was investigated by RT-PCR to examine the apoptosis-inducing pathways. RT-PCR analysis revealed that L. minor induced apoptosis via a mitochondria-dependent pathway by affecting the bax/bcl-2 ratio. The study suggests L. minor as a promising natural agent for bone cancer treatment.