APOPTOTIC EFFECTS OF BETA-CAROTENE, ALPHA-TOCOPHEROL AND ASCORBIC ACID ON PC-3 PROSTATE CANCER CELLS

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the the most commonly diagnosed cancer type being the second major reason of cancer-associated death in male particularly over the age of 50. Accumulating scientific evidences suggest the role oxidative stress and Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in prostate cancer. ROS are produced by carcinogenic molecules, infection, toxic compounds all of which can contribute to disturbed homeostasis and genetic mutation. Antioxidants can decrease the negative effects of ROS in vitro. The vitamins C (Ascorbic acid, Asc), A (beta carotenoids and retinoids, β-Crt) and E (alpha tocopherol, α-Toc) play important role in inhibiting oxidation and reducing the concentration of free radicals in the body. The aim of this study was to determine the anticancer effect of α-Toc, β-Crt and Asc on PC-3 prostate cancer cells in vitro. This was carried out by cell proliferation, ROS and Lipid Peroxidation assay, caspase-3 and propidium iodide staining experiments. The findings suggest that these agents behave as prooxidant by lowering cell viability and increasing the production of ROS and LPO in prostate cancer. These oxidants induce apoptosis as supported by propidium iodide and caspase-3 staining.