Anti-Tumor Activity of Ovothiol-A Against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma in Mice

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is the second most common cause of death worldwide. Ovothiol-A is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound found in nature. The purpose of the current study is to examine Ovothiol-A's ability to protect against Ehrlich Ascites Cancer (EAC). Methods: Four sets of six female albino mice were randomly assigned: Control group (normal mice given an intraperitoneal injection of saline); EAC group (EAC mice injected with saline, i.p.); and Ovothiol-A groups (EAC mice treated with Ovothiol-A (25 and 50 mg/kg)). Results: WBC count, urea, uric acid, aminotransferase enzymes, nitric oxide, and malondialdehyde levels, as well as tumor volume, tumor cell counts, and tumor cell viability, were all significantly reduced in ovothiol-treated mice. The Ovothiol-A group showed significant increases in the number of red blood cells, the amount of hemoglobin, the number of platelets, glutathione levels, and catalase levels. Ovothiol-A was more effective at the higher dose (50 mg/kg) compared to the lower dose (25 mg/kg). Discussion: Ovothiol-A's anticancer effect may be mediated via its interaction with tubulin. Covalent attachment of ovothiol-A to tubulin is likely initiated by thiol-disulfide exchange events between the sulfur atoms in ovothiol-A and the intracellular thiol groups present on tubulin. This results in mitotic arrest and apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway. Conclusion: The results of this investigation demonstrate that Ovothiol-A is a potent natural compound with promising anticancer potential. In addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Ovothiol-A may also exert anticancer effects by regulating essential cellular processes, such as proliferation and differentiation.