Chemotherapeutic
Role of Aqueous Extract of Mentha arvensis against 4-NQO-Induced Oral Carcinogenesis
in Murine Model
Dey Pubali, Das Aparajita and Giri Sarbani
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(6); 117-125;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/206rjbt1170125; (2025)
Abstract
Conventional cancer treatments mostly have noteworthy side effects, highlighting
the need for alternatives. Plant-derived bioactive compounds are emerging as promising
cancer therapies. This study explores the chemotherapeutic potential of aqueous
extract of Mentha arvensis (AEMA) in a Swiss albino mice model of oral cancer induced
by 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO). Significant differences in body weight were
recorded during the treatment process. The control group exhibited a 56% increase
in body weight, while the 4NQO-treated group showed a 16% gain, indicating marked
toxicity. Mice treated with 4NQO followed by Mentha arvensis extract (AEMA) demonstrated
a 35% increase in body weight, suggesting a protective effect. Histopathological
analysis of the 4NQO-only group revealed moderate to severe dysplasia, with tumor
cells infiltrating skeletal muscle fibers.
In contrast, the AEMA-treated group showed mild dysplasia, a reduced risk of oral
carcinoma and lower tumor burden. AEMA also significantly mitigated oxidative stress,
as evidenced by reduced levels of TBARS (p<0.001) and restored SOD activity (p<0.001)
in the tongue tissue. These findings indicate that AEMA is crucial in alleviating
4NQO-induced oxidative damage. The results support the potential of Mentha arvensis
as a promising chemotherapeutic agent for reducing tumor progression and enhancing
antioxidant defenses in oral cancer.
