Antioxidant and Anti-Cancer Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Citrus Fruits on Hep G2 and MCF-7 Cell Lines

Background/objective: Cancer is a complex genetic disease that occurs due to mutation in genes that control apoptosis and cell growth. Uncontrolled cell growth leads to the formation of tumors. Free radical causes mutation in genes and DNA sequence, however antioxidants can stabilize these harmful effects. Citrus fruits are the rich source of antioxidants. owing to this property this study was planned to evaluate the potential of the citrus fruits for the treatment of the cancer.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate antioxidant as well anticancer potential of five different citrus strains (Citrus deliciosa, Citrus maxima, Citrus limetta, Citrus sinensis and Citrus reticulata).

Methods: Peel of all the citrus fruits were collected, grinded and ethanolic extracts were prepared separately, to evaluate radical scavenging ability by employing DPPH method followed by MTT assay of the cancer cell lines to explore the anticancer potential of the extracts.

Results: It was observed that citrus peels exhibited good radical scavenging activity and inhibited tumor growth. Maximum effect was produced by Citrus reticulata, and least results were obtained with Citrus sinensis.

Conclusion: It was concluded that antioxidant and anti-cancer effects of citrus peels may be due to be owing to the presence of antioxidants (ascorbic acid, flavonoids, phenols, limonene). This research might open new horizon in the treatment of cancer chemotherapy.