Study to Analyse the Chemotherapeutic Effect of Propolis And Withaferin-A on Benz (A) Pyrene Induced Lipid Peroxidation and Antioxidant System in Wistar Rats

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background & Objectives: Female breast cancer has become the first and most common malignancy surpassing lung cancer, and the global incidence is reported to be high. In general, developing countries like India reports more cancer cases which have become a significant health burden. The currently available anticancer agents pose significant toxicities besides the development of resistance. Therefore, natural compounds with promising anticancer activity may be investigated. In the present study, we evaluated the combinational effect of propolis and withaferin A in female Wistar rats subjected to Benz(a)pyrene-induced breast cancer. Methods: Five groups of rats, each consisting of six animals, were used in the study. Group I (normal control), group II (cancer control) were treated with saline and benz (a) pyrene, respectively. Whereas group III, group IV and group V were intended to receive withaferin A, propolis individually and in combination. Finally, antioxidant levels of all groups were estimated in blood using spectrophotometrically. Results: Our results revealed that the combined treatment with withaferin A and propolis was effective compared to their individual effect. This observation was supported by decreased lipid peroxidation. Additionally, the levels of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic were elevated compared to the rats in the groups that received individual treatment. Interpretation and Conclusions: Propolis and withaferin A combination effectively prevent the Benz (a) pyrene-induced mammary carcinogenesis. The underlying mechanism could be their synergistic antioxidant property.