In vitro evaluation of cytotoxic impact of Adenium obesum crude extract on EJ138 bladder carcinoma cells

Abstract Bladder cancer is a prevalent neoplasm that exhibits higher incidence rates in males than females. The most common clinical manifestations of bladder cancer are hematuria, reduced urine flow, and urinary frequency. Plant-derived compounds have emerged as promising candidates for anti-tumor therapy. Adenium obesum extract has demonstrated various biological activities, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, immunomodulatory, anti-malarial, and anti-trypanosomal effects. The aim of this study was to examine the cytotoxic effects of Adenium obesum crude extract (0.25, 0.5, and 1 µg/mL) on the bladder cancer cell line EJ138 in vitro. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assays, Neutral red uptake, and NO assays. Oxidative stress was evaluated by GSH and catalase assays. Apoptosis was detected by a comet assay. The results showed that Adenium obesum decreased EJ138 cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. NO production also declined with increasing concentrations of Adenium obesum, except at 0.25. GSH and catalase assays indicated oxidative stress induction in EJ138 cells. A comet assay revealed significant apoptosis induction in a concentration-dependent pattern. These findings imply that Adenium obesum possesses potent anti-cancer properties and may be a potential source of anti-tumor agents.