Differential expression of steroidogenic genes in MCF-7 cell lines by methanolic extract of Mallotus phillippensis

The role of oestrogen in the development of breast cancer is well documented. The aberrant expression of genes involved in oestrogen hormone synthesis can be one of the causes of breast cancer. Suppression of these genes is considered a therapeutic option for the treatment of breast cancer. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of a methanolic extract of Mallotus phillippensis leaves on the expression of CYP19 and StAR genes in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of the extract was found to be 190 µg/mL. MCF-7 cells treated with half IC50, IC50 and double IC50 of the extract that is 95, 190 and 380 µg/mL, was used for evaluating the effect on the gene. Methanolic extract of M. phillippensis at double IC50 doses, upregulated the expression of StAR and CYP 19 genes, whereas at half IC50 and IC50 doses downregulated StAR and CYP 19 gene expression. The gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of phytosterols, fatty acid analogues and terpenoids in the extract which contributed to differential expression of StAR and CYP 19 genes. The confirmation of detected compounds was carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. From this study, it is inferred that higher doses of methanolic extract of Mallotus phillippensis can be used for treatment of the oestrogen deficient conditions leading to infertility while at lower doses significantly reduces StAR and CYP 19 gene expression can be recommended for the treatment of breast cancer.