Cytotoxicity and Cell Migration Suppression by Noni Fruit Extract on Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 Human Breast Cancer Cells and Development of Topical Microemulsions

Background: There is limited data about the anti‑breast cancer activity of noni fruit ethanolic extract. Topical route is gaining interest as an alternative route for breast cancer treatment. Objectives: The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of noni fruit extract on cytotoxicity and cell migration suppression in Michigan Cancer Foundation‑7 (MCF‑7) human breast cancer cells and to develop topical microemulsions (MEs). Materials and Methods: The noni fruit ethanolic extract was prepared. Rutin content, a marker, in the extract was analyzed, and the antioxidant activity of the extract was determined. Cytotoxicity and cell migration suppression, indicating anti‑breast cancer activity, were also assessed in MCF‑7 cells by SRB assay and wound‑healing assay. The MEs were developed by titration method. The developed noni MEs were evaluated regarding their physical appearance, viscosity, and pH before and after stability test. Results: Results showed that the rutin content in the noni extract was 4.02 ± 0.34 mg/g. The extract possessed antioxidant activity with inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 1.03 ± 0.01 mg/ml. It also showed cytotoxicity with IC50 values of 158.4 ± 12.5 µg/ml and cell migration suppression on MCF‑7 cells with significant effect at 100 µg/ml. Eight ME systems were selected to incorporate the extract. Conclusion: Noni extract had potential anti‑breast cancer activity. The ME, named noni ME‑3, consisting of 0.7% w/w noni extract, 56% w/w olive oil, 20% w/w polysorbate 80, 20% w/w sorbitan oleate, and 4% w/w water phase, was shown to be the most attractive noni ME for the topical treatment of breast cancer.