OBJECTIVE: Glioblastoma multiforme is one of the most malignant types of central nervous system tumors and temozolomide (TMZ) is currently used as a standard treatment for this type of cancer. However, resistance to temozolomide is a problem in the successful treatment. Plants and herbs are potential sources of cancer therapeutics. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of Allium Jesdianum (AJ) hydroalcoholic extract on glioblastoma multiforme cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The plant material was purchased and extracted. The cell line was treated with extract for 24, 48, and 72 hr. Cell viability was assessed by trypan blue staining, MTT assay, and lactate dehydrogenase activity measurement. Tumor invasion potential was evaluated by cell migration, invasion, and adhesion tests. Real-time PCR was used to assess the changes in the expression pattern of genes involved in cancer invasion.

RESULTS: Extract treatment caused a concentration- and time-dependent decrease in cell survival. Also, a decrease in cell migration, invasion and adhesion potential and the expression of metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in cells was observed after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: Allium Jesdianum showed promising anti-cancer activity in glioblastoma multiforme cells.