In vitro anticancer effect of theobromine in A549 non-small cell lung cancer cells

Abstract

Objectives: Theobromine, a naturally occurring alkaloid, is now recognized as a viable option due to its potential therapeutic benefit in many types of cancers. This preliminary study was undertaken to clarify how theobromine affects the viability, apoptosis, and migration of human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549 cells. Methods: Water-soluble tetrazolium-1 (WST-1) assay was utilized to measure the cytotoxicity of theobromine (5-200 μM) in A549 cells for 24 and 48 hours. Flow cytometry analysis was used to detect apoptosis. A wound healing assay was carried out to evaluate the migration of A549 cells. Cells incubated with the IC50 concentration of cisplatin for 24 hours served as the reference group. Results: A time- and dose-dependent effect of theobromine on the inhibition of A549 cell viability was dramatically observed. Theobromine treatment led to an increased apoptotic cell population and caspase 3/7 activity (p<0.0001). Furthermore, the migratory capacity of A549 cells was reduced in the cells treated with theobromine. Conclusion: The results suggested that theobromine potently reduced the cell growth and migration capacity of NSCLC A549 cells by inducing caspase 3/7-mediated apoptosis. Additional studies are necessary to comprehend the antitumor mechanisms of theobromine against NSCLC and to provide helpful perspectives for more research.