Evaluating the Effects of Silymarin on Expressing SBDSP1 and CASC11 Genes in HCT116 Colon Cancer Cells

Background: Numerous studies have proven that silymarin can fight cancer, but the results remain controversial. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the expression levels of SBDSP1 and CASC11 genes in HCT116 colon cancer cells to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of silymarin. Methods: This study was conducted on HCT 116 cell lines, which were divided into groups treated with 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 250, and 500 μg/mL silymarin and control group. The silymarin cytotoxicity was checked using the MTT assay, and the apoptosis induction rate was determined using the annexin (An)-V/PI kit and flow cytometry. The real-time PCR was also used to examine the expression of the CASC11 and SBDSP1 genes. The data were compared using one-way analysis of variance between groups. Results: The cell survival was reduced based on concentration and time, and IC50 concentrations were observed in 30.94, 41.50, and 46.41 μg/mL at 24, 48, and 72 hours, respectively. In addition, the treatment with IC50 concentration significantly increased in apoptosis after 48 hours compared to the control. A decrease in expression of CASC11 and SBDSP1 genes was observed in HCT116 cells treated with IC50 concentrations after 24 and 48 hours. Conclusions: According to the results, silymarin, as an active substance, declines survival, induces apoptosis, and reduces the expression of SBDSP1 and CASC11 genes on the HCT-116 colon cancer cell line based on concentration and time.