EVALUATION OF THE ANTIPROLIFERATIVE EFFECT OF SAFRANAL IN C-4 I CERVICAL CANCER CELL LINE

Aim: Safranal is a bioactive compound responsible for the aroma propriety of Crocus sativus. Many studies have shown the antioxidant activity of safranal besides some pharmacological properties, including its anti-inflammatory effect. Our study aimed on identifying the cytotoxic effects of safranal on the C-4 I cell line of cervical cancer. Methods: The cytotoxic effect of safranal on the C-4 I cell line was determined after incubating the cells for certain durations (2 to 72 hours) and concentrations (25 to 800 µM). After incubation, cell viability and anti-proliferation effect of safranal were determined respectively by Mitochondrial Dehydrogenase and Lactate dehydrogenase enzymes activities assays. Additionally, morphological changes occurring during incubation in cells were examined with inverted and optical microscope using Giemsa staining. Results: According to the results, compared to Control group, the % viability of treated cells was decreased depending on concentration and the incubation time, and safranal significantly inhibited the growth of C-4 I cells (p