Graphitic carbon nitride as a novel anticancer agent: potential mechanisms and efficacy in prostate cancer and glioblastoma treatment

Abstract

Carbon-derived compounds are gaining traction in the scientific community because of their unique properties, such as conductivity and strength, and promising innovations in technology and medicine. Graphitic nitride carbon (g-C₃N₄) stands out among these compounds because of its potential in antitumor therapies. This study aimed to assess g-C₃N₄'s antitumor potential and cytotoxic mechanisms. Prostate cancer (DU-145) and glioblastoma (U87) cell lines were used to evaluate antitumor effects, whereas RAW 264.7 and HFF-1 non-tumor cells were used for selectivity evaluation. The synthesized g-C₃N₄ particles underwent comprehensive characterization, including the assessment of particle size, morphology, and oxygen content, employing various techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The results indicated that g-C₃N₄ significantly affected tumor cell proliferation and viability, exhibiting high cytotoxicity within 48 h. In non-tumor cells, minimal effects on proliferation were observed, except for damage to the cell membranes of RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, g-C₃N₄ changed the cell morphology and ultrastructure, affecting cell migration in U87 cells and potentially enhancing migration in RAW 264.7 cells. Biochemical assays in Balb/C mice revealed alterations in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and amylase levels. In conclusion, g-C₃N₄ demonstrated promising antitumor effects with minimal toxicity to non-tumor cells, suggesting its potential in neoplasm treatment.