Methanol Extract of Young <i>Lantana camara</i> L. Leaves Exhibit Anti‐Ovarian Cancer and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects via Inhibition of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK Pathways

Lantana camara (LC) L. is a widely distributed plant long used in African and Asian medicine for pain, inflammation, skin disorders, and cancer-related symptoms. Young leaves are often brewed into teas to manage digestive and reproductive conditions, including ovarian inflammation. This study examined the methanol extract of young LC leaves for anti-ovarian cancer and anti-inflammatory potential through modulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK (MAPK) pathways. Phytochemical and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses identified over 30 bioactive compounds, notably oleic acid, pyrazine, and palmitic acid. Anticancer activity was tested on SKOV3 and OVCAR-3 ovarian cancer cells, with MTT assays showing strong cytotoxicity (IC₅₀: 12.6 ± 1.8 and 18.9 ± 2.1 µg/mL), while sparing normal IOSE-80 cells (IC₅₀ > 140 µg/mL). Annexin V-FITC/PI staining indicated enhanced apoptosis, with early and late apoptotic populations reaching 31.4% ± 2.5% and 24.7% ± 3.1%. Western blot confirmed suppression of phosphorylated PI3K, AKT, mTOR, MEK, and ERK. In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, the extract reduced nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (-43.2%), interleukin (IL)-6 (-39.8%), PGE2 (-47.6%), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) (p < 0.05). ELISA and immunofluorescence further validated cytokine inhibition. These results indicate that LC leaves possess strong anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting their traditional use and therapeutic potential against ovarian cancer and inflammation.