Phytochemical profiling and cytotoxic potential of hydroalcoholic extract of <i>Begonia malabarica</i> in HepG2 cells: an <i>in vitro</i> phytopharmacological study

OBJECTIVES: cytotoxic potential against HepG2 (Human Hepatocellular carcinoma) cell lines. METHODS: extract against the HepG2 cell line. The Annexin V/PI Apoptotic assay was performed to estimate the proportion of cells undergoing apoptosis. The results were compared with doxorubicin as standard. RESULTS: extract induced pronounced apoptosis in HepG2 cells, marked by a dominant late apoptotic population (70.56 %) and dead cells (22.17 %), with minimal early apoptotic (0.04 %) and viable cells (7.23 %). The percentage of cells undergone late apoptosis was identical to standard drug doxorubicin (71.2 %). These results suggest a late apoptotic response, potentially involving mitochondrial disruption, oxidative stress, or caspase activation. CONCLUSIONS: that can modulate cell death pathways, supporting its potential as a potential anti-cancer agent. However, more research can help in better understanding of the role of this plant as a potential new source of cancer therapy and uncover previously unknown pharmacological activities and properties.