Quercetin as a radiosensitizer for enhanced efficacy of radiotherapy in MCF-7 breast cancer cells

Introduction: Radiation therapy is a primary approach for treating cancer. Utilizing natural radiosensitizer compounds is crucial to enhance radiosensitivity in tumor tissue while minimizing damage to normal tissue. This study aims to assess the impact of quercetin as a radiosensitizing compound in MCF-7 cells. Materials and Methods: This research examined the impact of quercetin at concentrations of 20, 40, and 60 μM with and without radiation (2 and 3 Gy) on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line as a radiosensitizer agent. The investigation employed a micronucleus test, clonogenic assay, and assessments of Superoxide-dismutase and catalase activity. Results: The findings indicated that the group exposed to radiation exhibited a significant decrease in the number of colonies (P < 0.0001) and activity of SOD and CAT enzymes while showing a significant increase in the number of micronuclei compared to the control group (P < 0.0001). Additionally, in all the groups treated with quercetin and exposed to radiation, there was a notable increase in micronuclei and a significant decrease in the number of colonies and activity of CAT and SOD enzymes. Conclusions: The study's findings demonstrated that quercetin has the ability to increase the sensitivity of MCF-7 breast cancer cells to ionizing radiation in a manner that depends on the dosage.