Anti-Proliferative and Anti-Angiogenic Potential of Euphorbia nivulia Extract on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells (HepG2)

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the prevalent and deadliest type of liver cancer across the globe. Owing to drug resistance and adverse effects, the available therapies have certain limitations, which offer a window to explore alternative therapeutic options based on natural sources. Based on traditional and modern practices, a primary source of applied medication relates to botanical origin due to biodiversity. This provides insight into evaluating the undiscovered features of plants and their relevant products to utilize their impact in the medicinal field, particularly in cancer treatment. Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the anti-proliferation and anti-angiogenic potential of Euphorbia Giulia (EN) extract against Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells (HepG2). Methods: In-vitro anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic activities were performed on the HepG2 cell line through different assays like MTT, crystal violet, trypan blue, and scratch assay. Results: The results showed that EN extract significantly decreased proliferation and angiogenesis compared to untreated cells. The MTT assay exhibited a significant decline in the growth rate of the proliferating HepG2 cells as their metabolic activity was halted with EN extract. The crystal violet and trypan blue assays revealed that EN extract significantly inhibited cell viability and cell death, respectively. Moreover, when treated with EN extract, the scratch assay displayed a slower gap closure, which manifested its ability to promote angiogenesis. Conclusion: Conclusively, EN displayed significant anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic effects on HepG2 cells, and its phytochemicals could be potential candidates for the treatment of HCC after further validations.