Biosynthesis and Characterization of Ocimum Sanctum and Evalution of its Anti-Cancer Activity on Bone Marrow Cancer (K562)

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer, particularly hematologic malignancies like chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), poses significant challenges due to its complex pathophysiology and resistance to conventional treatments. Ocimum sanctum, commonly known as Holy Basil or Tulsi, has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties, including anticancer effects. This study aims to investigate the biosynthesis and characterization of Ocimum sanctum extract and evaluate its anticancer activity against the K562 bone marrow cancer cell line.

Methods: Ocimum sanctum plants were collected, dried, and powdered for extraction using Soxhlet extraction with solvents of increasing polarity. The extracts were characterized through phytochemical screening, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The anticancer activity was assessed using the MTT assay, which measures cell viability. Flow cytometry with Annexin V-FITC/PI staining was used to analyze apoptosis.

Results and Discussion: Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic compounds. The UV-Vis spectra showed characteristic peaks at 270 nm and 330 nm. The MTT assay demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in K562 cell viability, with the highest concentration showing significant cytotoxicity. Flow cytometry revealed a dose-dependent increase in early and late apoptotic cells, confirming the pro-apoptotic activity of the extract. The results indicate that Ocimum sanctum extract induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation in K562 cells. The presence of bioactive compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids likely contributes to its anticancer activity. These findings align with previous studies demonstrating the anticancer potential of Ocimum sanctum in various cancer cell lines.

Conclusion: Ocimum sanctum extract shows significant anticancer activity against K562 bone marrow cancer cells, evidenced by reduced cell viability and increased apoptosis. These results validate the traditional use of Ocimum sanctum in cancer treatment and highlight its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for managing chronic myeloid leukemia. Further in vivo studies and clinical trials are warranted to confirm these findings and elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved.