RNAs associated with oxidative stress and apoptosis show anticancer effects of Flos Sophorae flavonoids extract on human hepatoma cells.

Flos Sophorae, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb and health tea, consists of the dried flowers and buds of the Sophora japonica L. (Leguminosae). This study assesses the in vitro anticancer efficacy of Flos Sophorae flower extract (FSFE) against the human hepatocarcinoma cell line HepG2, juxtaposed with its effects on normal human liver L02 cells. Cell viability was assessed using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay to evaluate the effects of fruit skin flavonoid extract (FSFE) on cellular proliferation. The results indicated that FSFE significantly inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 liver cancer cells, with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 117.98 μg/mL, while having minimal effects on normal liver L02 cells. HPLC analysis identified rutin and quercetin as components of FSFE, both recognized for their antioxidant properties. The flavonoids in Flos Sophorae exhibit potent inhibitory effects on liver cancer cells, indicating potential as a natural anticancer agent. The findings support the continued development and research into the therapeutic applications of these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]