Impact of Iranian Viola Odorata Extract on the Malignant Traits of Colorectal Cancer Cells

Background: Cancer, particularly colorectal cancer, is a growing global public health issue with a significant impact on individuals aged fifty and older. Viola odorata, a traditional herbal remedy, has been investigated for its potential anti-cancer effects, particularly in inhibiting the metastasis of certain cancer cell types. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of Viola odorata extract on the malignant characteristics of colorectal cancer cell lines HT-۲۹ and HCT-۱۱۶. Methods: Samples of Viola odorata were collected from five different geographical locations in Iran. The chemical composition of the extracts was analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and the concentration of polyphenols and flavonoids was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The hydro-alcoholic extract was then used to treat HT-۲۹ and HCT-۱۱۶ colorectal cancer cell lines. Apoptosis, migration, colony formation, and cell viability were assessed and compared. Results: Treatment with Viola odorata extract induced apoptosis in both HT-۲۹ and HCT-۱۱۶ cell lines. The extract also significantly reduced cell migration and colony formation. Cell viability was markedly decreased, with HCT-۱۱۶ cells showing greater sensitivity to the extract than HT-۲۹ cells. Conclusion: Viola odorata extract demonstrated anti-cancer activity against colorectal cancer cell lines, with a more pronounced effect in HCT-۱۱۶ cells. These findings suggest that Viola odorata may be a promising therapeutic agent for targeting colorectal cancer cells, especially at higher concentrations, and its efficacy appears to be cell-dependent

Keywords:

Apoptosis , Colorectal cancer , Flavonoids , Viola odorata