In-vitro and in-vivo assessment of cytotoxic potential of β-1,3 beta-glucan comprising Lentinan against glioblastoma multiforme

Introduction

Lentinan (LNT), a bioactive β-glucan from Shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes), is traditionally used in Chinese medicine for immune support and cancer therapy. This study evaluates LNT's potential to treat glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) by exploring its immune-modulatory, antiangiogenic, cytotoxic, antioxidant, and antiproliferative effects.

Methods

The anti-cancer effects of LNT were assessed through in-vitro and in-vivo models. The antiangiogenic activity was measured via the CAM model, cytotoxicity through MTT and SRB assays on U87 MG cells, antioxidant potential by DPPH scavenging, and mitochondrial membrane potential using Rhodamine-123. Antimitotic and antiproliferative activities were also examined.

Results

LNT showed significant antiangiogenic activity at 15–20 mg/pellet (p < 0.01) and reduced U87 MG cell viability dose-dependently, with an IC₅₀ of 96.11 ± 0.21 µg/mL at 48 h. It demonstrated 84.21 ± 1.29 % antioxidant scavenging at 100 µg/mL and lowered the mitotic index to 33 ± 1.36 % at 25 mg/mL. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) showed a significant decrease in the green fluorescence (p < 0.01). Antimitotic potential showed maximum inhibition of mitosis of 33 ± 1.36 % at 25 mg/mL along with chromosomal abnormalities on the treated root tips. In yeast cells, LNT showed substantial antiproliferative activity.

Discussion

These findings support LNT's traditional use in Chinese medicine and highlight its potential against GBM.