Author(s)

Mochang Qiu, Xiyong Ye

Corresponding Author

Mochang Qiu

ABSTRACT

‘Objective’ to observe the inhibitory effect of total flavonoids of Trifolium repens L. on tumors in MCF-7 breast cancer mice, and to explore its mechanism and toxicity. ‘Methods’ Breast cancer MCF-7 cells were subcutaneously inoculated into the right axilla to observe the effects of low, medium and high doses of total flavonoids of Trifolium repens L. on the tumor growth curve and tumor inhibition rate of tumor-bearing mice. The expression of Caspase-3 in tumor tissues was measured, and the serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (CRE) and other biochemical indicators were detected. ‘Results’ 2.5 and 5.0g/kg total flavonoids of Trifolium repens L. had significant inhibitory effects on the tumor volume and weight of McF-7 breast cancer mice. The inhibition rate of total flavonoids of Trifolium repens L. of 5.0g/kg clover reached 32.18%. The expression of Caspase-3 in subcutaneous transplanted tumor in the three dose groups was higher than that in the control group (P <0.05). The total flavonoids of Trifolium repens L. had no significant effect on serum ALT, AST, BUN and CRE. ‘Conclusion’ the flavonoids can inhibit the growth of MCF-7 transplanted tumors. This effect may be related to the enhancement of Caspase-3 expression and promote the apoptosis of tumor cells. No flavonoids of Trifolium repens L. have liver and kidney toxicity in experimental mice.

KEYWORDS

Flavonoids of Trifolium repens L, Breast tumor, Development of Chinese herbal medicine, Caspase-3