Phytochemical and biological screening of aqueous Galium verum L. extract

Abstract

Plants are an important source of active compounds with numerous therapeutic benefits. Nowadays, plant extracts have attracted an increased attention as candidates in the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including cancer. Galium verum L. is considered an effective remedy due to its extensive traditional use, thus the investigation of its anticancer potential has gained momentum. Malignant melanoma is an aggressive type of cancer with an increased incidence. Therefore, the purpose of this paper was to analyze the cytotoxic effect of GvH₂O extract on A375 cells. Furthermore, the safety of the extract was evaluated on HaCaT cells and the results showed that the GvH₂O does not exert a cytotoxic action on keratinocytes but stimulates their proliferation at 15 - 55 μg/mL. In addition, the GvH₂O extract was characterized from a phytochemical point of view. The results showed that GvH₂O contains polyphenolic compounds (rutin and chlorogenic acid), possesses antioxidant activity and can be effective on Gram-positive bacteria as well as on E. coli. GvH₂O extract showed a cytotoxic effect on melanoma cells, causing changes in confluence and morphology and revealing nuclear characteristics specific to apoptosis. Finally, Galium verum L. may be a possible candidate for skin cancer therapy, but additional studies are needed.