Anti-Cancer Effects Of Avocado Seed Extract Bio-Assisted Selenium Nanoparticles In Breast Cancer Cells – An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Selenium nanoparticles were reported for its good biocompatibility and low toxicity. Avocado seed triggers the immune system, reduces premature aging of the skin and prevents cancer. Avocado seeds have shown to possess bactericidal and fungicidal properties. It means that they are able to neutralize different harmful microorganisms. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the effect of avocado seed mediated selenium nanoparticles on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Cytotoxic effect of the avocado seed selenium nanoparticle was assessed by MTT assay at varying concentrations of 25-150mg/ml. Morphological changes were observed using the Phase contrast microscope. The apoptotic effect of selenium nanoparticles synthesized from avocado seed extract was evaluated by ethidium bromide/acridine orange dual staining assay. The results demonstrated that the selenium nanoparticles were found to be cytotoxic towards MCF-7 breast cancer cells with a maximum inhibition observed at 150mg/ml. IC₅₀ was found to be 75mg/ml. Morphological changes were observed in selenium nanoparticles treated cells when compared to untreated control. Further, the dual staining assay showed induction of apoptosis exhibited as yellowish green fluorescent cells in comparison to the control group that appeared green fluorescence. Therefore, it is concluded that selenium nanoparticles synthesized using avocado seed extract have significant anti proliferative and apoptotic effect against MCF-7 breast cancer cells.