Investigation of Antitumor Activity of Fenugreek Paste Extracts

Abstract

Objective: Fenugreek paste, which contains fenugreek and spices, is a popular food in Kayseri and the surrounding region of Türkiye. This study aims to evaluate the antitumor effects of an extract derived from fenugreek paste in Balb/C mice bearing Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT). Materials and Methods: In the in vivo experiments, fenugreek paste extract was administered at concentrations of 200 mg/kg or 400 mg/kg. For the in vitro study, extract concentrations of 250, 500, and 1000 ?g/mL were used. At the end of the experiment, the volume of abdominal ascites fluid was measured, and cell counts were performed. Results: Fenugreek paste extract delayed weight gain due to EAT cell proliferation in the treatment groups and caused a significant decrease in the number of cells in the ascites fluid in the 400 mg/kg extract group (47.28×106) compared to the control group (67.60×106; p=0.041). Histopathological analysis revealed that EAT cells adhered intensely to tissues in the control group but adhered less in the treatment groups. The most significant decrease was observed in the 400 mg/kg fenugreek extract group. After 24 hours of culture, there was a substantial difference in EAT cell viability between the control group (5.9±0.2) and the treatment groups receiving 250, 500, and 1000 ?g/mL of fenugreek paste extract (5.7±0.2, 5.7±0.2, and 5.6±0.1, respectively; p=0.013). Conclusion: The study results suggested that fenugreek paste extract had an antitumor effect on EAT cells.