Evaluation of Anticancer Effects Induced by Apis mellifera Venom on Breast Cancer Cell Line

Background: In recent years, the number of people with cancer has increased. For this reason, different drugs have been suggested for the treatment of cancer, but none of them has resulted in complete remission. Many bio-toxins are biologically active compounds with anticancer activity. In the meantime, bee venom (BV) has a potent anti cancer and tumor effects. The aim of present study is evaluation of BV anticancer effects on breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231). Methods: Crude bee venom was obtained from Apis mellifera and the amount of its protein was determined. MDA-MB-231 cancer cell line was cultured and then the cells were exposed to 1.56, 3.125, 3.25, 6.25, 12.5, 25 and 50 µg/ml of bee venom for 24 and 48 h, respectively. The morphology and apoptosis were evaluated and cell viability was determinedby MTT assay. Results: MTT assay showed that BV at concentration 6.25 µg/ml for MDA-MB-231 killed 50% of cells (p<0.05). Morphological analysis and the obtained data indicated that cell death caused by BV was induced apoptosis. Conclusion: Findings indicated that BV have anticancer effects and with further investigation, it can be used in production of anticancer drugs.