Thymoquinone Potentiates Methotrexate Mediated-Apoptosis in Saos-2 Osteosarcoma Cell Line

Abstract

Introduction Recently, various studies have concentrated on the therapeutic potential of thymoquinone (TQ), a natural polyphenol, in various human malignancies, including osteosarcoma. However, the underlying mechanisms in TQ-mediated anti-cancer effects are not yet fully understood. Therefore, the present study investigated the effect of TQ on methotrexate (MTX)-induced apoptosis in Saos-2 cells.

Methods Saos-2 cells were treated with MTX, TQ, and a combination of both, and cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. mRNA expression of apoptotic markers, including Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3, was assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results MTX resulted in significant inhibition of cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. The combination of TQ and MTX inhibited proliferation compared to single treatments (P<0.05). TQ also induced apoptosis by regulating pro-apoptotic markers including Bax and caspase-3 and reducing anti-apoptotic mediators including Bcl-2. In addition, TQ increased MTX-induced apoptosis in Saos-2 cells.

Conclusion The findings of the present study highlight new insights into understanding the role of TQ as a potential therapeutic agent in osteosarcoma by increasing MTX-induced apoptosis.

Key words

Osteosarcoma - Thymoquinone - Methotrexate - Apoptosis

Publication History

Received: 16 March 2022

Accepted: 03 May 2022

Article published online:
27 June 2022

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