Suppression of cellular adhesion and the anticancer activity of Aralia elata extract

Abstract

The aim of this study was to provide a scientific basis for anti-arthritic and anticancer activities by inhibiting cellular adhesion molecule (CAM) expression by ingestion of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem (A. elata), which is used in traditional medicine in East Asia. A. elata extract inhibited the adhesion between monocytic THP-1 and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) monolayers, respectively, compared to the TNF-α-treated group. The methanol extract of A. elata potently suppressed TNF-α-stimulated expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and E-selectin. Additionally, the methanol, ethyl acetate, and chloroform extracts of A. elata exhibited significant cytotoxicity against stomach cancer, melanoma, and ovarian cancer cells; however, the butanol and aqueous extracts of A. elata were cytotoxic only against stomach cancer cells. A. elata is anticipated to inhibit atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer progression by suppressing the expression of CAMs in HUVECs

Keywords:
cellular adhesion; THP-1; HUVEC; anticancer; Aralia elata