Flow Cytometric Analysis Outlines the Impact of Trending Anticancer Agents on Cell Regulators In Mouse Malignant Ascites

Abstract

Purpose : Malignant ascites is a common manifestation of advanced cancer. It conveys a poor prognosis affecting the quality of life. Treatment options include chemotherapy and simple drainage techniques for symptomatic relief. The aspect of malignant ascites in promoting metastasis and therapy resistance is crucial. However, chemotherapy resistance is manifested by the innate and/or acquired ability of cancer cells to resist the effects of chemotherapeutics. Methods : Malignant ascites were induced by intraperitoneal inoculation of EAC in mice followed by flow cytometric analysis that was used to evaluate the cell cycle phases and increased proliferation of ascites cells as well as the interpretation of the proliferation index and apoptosis percentage. In addition, the expression of p53 and p21 as cell cycle regulators were increased. Apoptosis was assessed by analysis of the pro-apoptotic Bax and the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression. Results : Both acefylline and amygdalin combination with cisplatin showed a reduction in Ki-67 expression and arrested the cell cycle. Moreover, amygdalin treatment showed a significant reduction in S-phase and the proliferation index. This combination also restored the apoptotic cell’s apoptotic ability proved by the apoptosis index as well as the increased p53, p21 and Bcl-2 expression while reducing Bax expression in ascites fluid. Based on our results amygdaline showed a distinct effect associated with a significant reduction in the malignant ascites burden with markedly decreased proliferation and induced apoptosis. Conclusion : These findings provide a basis for the theory that combined chemoprevention is an effective treatment strategy that can be used along with conventional chemotherapy.