Adjunctive role of Calyptranthes tricona extract with probiotic Kluyveromyces marxianus on colorectal adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cells

Abstract

Abstract The composition of microbiota may influence the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). In addition, probiotics can decrease the chance of developing cancer or its progress. For that reason, it is encouraging to assess the influence of plant extracts as adjuvants of the health-promoting effects of probiotics. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the in vitro beneficial properties of Calyptranthes tricona leaf ethanol extract in association or not with the lactic yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus on colon adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cells. C. tricona extract inhibited the in vitro p38α MAPK activity and exhibited immunomodulation on isolated human lymphocytes. Further, the extract did not induce cytotoxicity towards K. marxianus or Caco-2 cells; leading to an increased yeast adhesion to cells in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, this preliminary study demonstrates that C. tricona extract has effects on enzyme inhibition and immune function. In addition, when associated with K. marxianus, C. tricona may possess beneficial properties for application as enhancer of probiotic’s protective role on CRC cells. However, further studies are necessary in order to elucidate the mechanisms involved.