Anti-proliferative Effects of Prunus Armeniaca Semen on Acute Leukemia by Regulate of Cell Cycle Progression

Introduction: Prunus armeniaca is one member of the Rosaceae family. Antitumor activity of this family on the colon, prostate, bladder, cervix, lung and breast cancers has been proven in previous research, which is attributed to a natural compound called amygdalin. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effect of apricot kernel extract on acute leukemia that has not been studied before. Methods: In this experimental study, Aqueous, ethyl acetate, and hydro alcoholic of the Armeniacae semen extracts were prepared. The NALM-6 and KG-1 cell lines were treated with different doses of extracts; cell viability was investigated with MTT test and using double staining fluorescent, cell apoptosis was detected. Cell cycle progression was analyzed, using a BD Cycle TEST PLUS DNA Kit. Results: The results showed that different extracts of Prunus armeniaca induced dose-dependent inhibition in both Kg1 and Nalm6 cell lines. According to the results of MTT test, the strongest IC50 in Kg1 and Nalm6 cell lines was related to the 48h effect of ethyl acetate extract of Prunus armeniaca. Fluorescent microscopy analysis showed apoptosis. The ethyl acetate extract application in both cell lines increased the number of cells in the G0 / G1 phase and decreased the number of cells in the G2 / M phase. Conclusion: It seems that ethylacetat extract of Prunus armeniaca can reduce the proliferation of Kg1 and Nalm6 cell lines, probably by regulates cell cycle progression.