Synergic anti-tumor effects of photodynamic therapy and resveratrol on triple-negative breast cancer cells.

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is a widespread type of cancer found across the world. The use of chemotherapy in breast cancer treatment may result in side effects and the emergence of drug resistance. Hence, seeking new and efficient therapies that reduce adverse reactions is imperative. Recently, combination therapy has emerged as a fresh and innovative strategy in contrast to conventional treatment methods. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) serves as a highly effective and minimally invasive technique for addressing breast cancer, providing the option to be utilized either concurrently or in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches. Resveratrol (RES) is a polyphenol found in several food sources. Research has demonstrated that RES can inhibit cell proliferation and metastasis and trigger apoptosis in tumor cells. This research aimed to assess the impact of combining RES and photodynamic therapy on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells.

Methods: MDA-MB-231 cells were grown in culture and subsequently exposed to different methylene blue (MB) doses while subjected to laser irradiation (PDT). Following this treatment, the cells were exposed to different RES concentrations. Cell viability was assessed utilizing the MTT assay. Light and fluorescence microscopy (AO/EB staining) were employed to observe cell morphological alterations following exposure to RES and MB-PDT. Additionally, flow cytometry was utilized to investigate cell cycle progression and apoptosis induction.

Results: The findings indicated that the co-administration of MB-PDT and RES resulted in increased cytotoxic effects on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells compared to the individual application of either treatment.

Discussion: The results of this study suggest that MB-PDT can reduce the dose and time of RES treatment and, therefore, can be indicated as a new approach for treating breast cancer cells.