Cytotoxic Activity of the New Molecular Complex DHMEQ and Ammonium Glycyrrhizinate

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic activity of a new molecular complex consisting of DHMEQ and ammonium glycyrrhizinate, as well as its effect on the transcription factor NF-κB. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the PrestoBlue® viability assay in HEK293, A-549, and MCF-7 cell lines. NF-κB inhibition was evaluated via a luciferase reporter assay in HEK293 cells. The complex was prepared at a 1:4 molar ratio (DHMEQ:ammonium glycyrrhizinate), and its structure was confirmed using spectroscopic methods and electron microscopy. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s post hoc test. Results: DHMEQ demonstrated high cytotoxic activity (IC50 = 13.82 ± 3.71 µM in HEK293 cells). The DHMEQ/ammonium glycyrrhizinate complex maintained comparable activity (IC50 = 10.39 ± 1.84 µM for HEK293) but showed reduced efficacy against A-549 and MCF-7 tumor cells. DHMEQ strongly inhibited NF-κB activity (IC50 = 0.83 ± 0.51 µM), while the complex required significantly higher concentrations (IC50 = 21.79 ± 6.24 µM) to achieve a similar inhibitory effect. Conclusion: The DHMEQ–ammonium glycyrrhizinate complex preserved the main biological properties of DHMEQ while improving its solubility and stability. This approach shows potential for developing DHMEQ-based drug formulations targeting NF-κB, but further optimization and in vivo validation are required before clinical application.