Exploration of phytochemicals, GC-MS analysis, and assessment of in vitro cytotoxic potential of Justicia adhatoda (L.) against Dalton’s Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) murine tumor model

Preliminary phytochemical investigation and in vitro cytotoxicity of Justicia Adhatoda (L.) Against dalton’s lymphoma ascites (dla) cells

Abstract

Researchers worldwide are presently delving into natural substances as prospective solutions for cancer treatment to develop drugs that minimize side effects. In this context, the present study investigated the in vitro cytotoxic potential of Justicia adhatoda (L.), a medicinal plant traditionally employed to address a range of health concerns. The phytochemical analysis using standard tests showed the presence of important metabolites such as carbohydrates, alkaloids, proteins, polyphenols, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids, phenols, and triterpenoids. Additionally, GC-MS analysis exhibited the presence of about 20 phytocompounds. Antioxidant potency determined through phosphomolybdate reduction and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl 1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging assays showed a dose-dependent antioxidant activity compared to the standard ascorbic acid. Moreover, the in vitro cytotoxicity assays, such as the trypan blue exclusion method, MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium), and LDH (Lactate dehydrogenase) demonstrated an effective cytotoxic response of the extract proportional to dose, indicated with a low IC₅₀ value. Furthermore, morphological observation of the extract-treated cells through dual fluorescence staining of ethidium bromide/acridine orange (EtBr/AO) showed apoptotic features. These findings highlight the antitumor efficacy of J. adhatoda (L.) extract specifically against the DL cell line. Further in vivo studies and analysis of its active constituents are recommended.