Cratoxylum formosum Leaf Extracts Inhibit Growth, Induce Apoptosis, and Decrease Metastasis Of HeLa Human Cervical Cancer Cells

Background: Cratoxylum formosum (CF) is being used in Asian countries to treat disease and for eating purposes. Objectives: In the present study, the young leaf extract of CF was extracted by distilled water (DW) and 95% ethanol and examined on anti‑cancer actions in cervical cancer cells. Materials and Methods: CF was determined the cytotoxic effects by sulforhodamine B, colony formation, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, ROS formation, and mitochondrial function assay. Results: The data revealed that the Distilled water (DW) and ethanol (EtOH) extract had potent cytotoxicity against HeLa cells, and EtOH extract had more potency than DW extract. Inhibition of colony‑forming ability was related with cell growth and at 250 mg/mL of CF was showed the highest activity. In addition, cancer cell distribution was stopped at the G0/G1 phase after incubating with 250 μg/mL of both extracts. The extracts potently induced cancer cell apoptosis properties in a dose‑dependent manner. DW extract induced late apoptosis from 4.7%, 6.2%, 7.8%, and 8.0% (0, 50, 100, 250 μg/mL); however, EtOH extract induced early apoptosis from 3.4%, 5.7%, 6.1% and 16.0%, respectively. Consistent with apoptotic effects, EtOH extract reduced mitochondrial function and the higher effects were found at 250 μg/mL concentrations and related to the ROS production. The two CF extracts powerfully inhibited the migratory abilities of HeLa cells. The data indicated that EtOH of CF extract had more potency against HeLa cells than DW extract. Conclusion: CF extracts are potent against HeLa cells proliferation, induces apoptosis, and suppresses migration; use of this plant for cervical cancer treatment should be encouraged.