Comparative Evaluation of Phytochemical Composition, Anticancer Potential, and Computational Analysis of various Macroalgae Extracts

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer globally, affecting approximately 1 in 8 women worldwide. Seaweeds are recognized for their diverse biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, and cytotoxic effects. However, the specific bioactive constituents responsible for these activities have yet to be fully explored.

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the phytochemical composition of various seaweeds and compare their anticancer potential.

Methods: Cytotoxicity assessments were conducted using the MTT assay on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. Phytochemical analysis of methanolic seaweed extracts revealed the presence of cardiac glycosides, steroids, terpenoids, and proteins across all samples. Consequently, LC-MS analysis was performed on the T. conoides extract to identify its active constituents.

Results: Among the extracts tested, Turbinaria conoides demonstrated notable cytotoxic activity with an IC50 value of 24.68 µg/mL. The chromatogram identified 16 bioactive compounds, of which Mescaline, Quinic acid, Shogaol, and Stachydrine were selected for molecular docking studies with estrogen receptor alpha (PDB ID: 5DXM). Shogaol exhibited the lowest binding energy of -7.15 kCal/mol and displayed stronger binding affinity with key residues at the ligand-binding site of estrogen receptor alpha compared to Mescaline (-6.04 kCal/mol), Quinic acid (-3.51 kCal/mol), and Stachydrine (-4.03 kCal/mol).

Conclusions: These findings suggest that the anticancer properties of Turbinaria conoides are attributed to these bioactive compounds, highlighting its potential as a promising candidate for future anticancer therapeutics.