Growth Inhibition and Cytotoxicity Effect of Green Tea Extract on Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Line: An in Vitro Study

Abstract

Aim: Cancer and malignancies are the leading cause of death in developed countries and the second leading cause of death in developing countries. Recent studies on natural ingredients, including herbs with targeted anti-malignancy properties and the potential for fewer side effects, have taken place. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the growth inhibition and cytotoxicity potential selective effects of green tea extract on malignant cells compared to normal cells. Materials & Method: To assess the cytotoxicity effects of green tea extract, a photometry method using MTT (Microculture Tetrazolium Test) was used. All tests on normal and malignant cell lines were repeated three times. In order to analyze the effects of the extract concentration and cell type effects together on cell vitality, a two-way ANOVA analysis was carried out. In order to analyze the effects of the extract concentration on cell vitality, a two-way and one-way ANOVA analysis was carried out. Results: According to the test results, the cells vitality amount was significantly associated with different concentrations of green tea extract (p-value < 0.001). The cell vitality was also significantly associated with the cell type in concentrations above 20 (p-value=0.023), but not significantly associated with the cell type at concentrations below 20 (p-value=0.123). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the cytotoxicity effects of green tea extract on malignant cell lines (SCC, Squamous Cell Carcinoma) are higher than on normal cell lines at concentrations above 20, while they are similar in concentrations below 20. According to the study, green tea extract could be used as a natural substance with selected anti-cancer properties and less side effects against SCC.