Phytochemical insights, antioxidant activity and therapeutic potential of Cassia senna against prostate cancer in Wistar albino rats

Prostate cancer is the second most common disease and a major worldwide health concern for males. This study investigates the phytochemical antioxidant properties of Cassia senna and its therapeutic potential against prostate cancer in Wistar albino rats. The Phytochemical screening was conducted to identify the presence of bioactive compounds. The radical scavenging activities, including DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl, superoxide and nitric oxide assays were performed to evaluate antioxidant capacity. The prostate cancer was induced in rats using testosterone and N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU). The experimental groups were treated with Cassia senna extract and finasteride to compare therapeutic outcomes. The effects were assessed by weight, enzymes, blood, lipids and histology. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of significant secondary metabolites in the ethanolic extract, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, saponins, carbohydrates, and amino acids. The ethanolic extract contained high levels of polyphenols (75.29 ± 0.22 mg/g), flavonoids (35.25 ± 1.15 mg/g), and tannins (180.62 ± 1.29 mg/g), along with moderate levels of vitamin C (19.40 ± 0.30 mg/g) and carotenoids (4.21 ± 0.20 mg/g). Vitamin E was present in smaller amounts (3.50 ± 0.25 mg/g). The ethanolic extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. Prostate cancer-induced rats treated with Cassia senna showed significant improvement in body and organ weights, serum enzyme levels, lipid profiles, and hematological markers compared to untreated groups. The study suggests that Cassia senna may be effective against prostate cancer by reducing oxidative stress, and further research is needed to explore its mechanisms and potential use in treatment. Ethanolic extract of Cassia senna having significant antioxidant activity. Prostate cancer-induced rats treated with Cassia senna showed significant improvement in body, organ weights, enzyme levels, lipid profiles, and hematological markers compared to untreated groups. Cassia senna is promising as a complementary or alternative therapeutic candidate for prostate cancer.