Effect of Cynara extracts on multiple myeloma cell Lines

Cancer is the main cause of death in the world. Breast, prostate, colon cancer are the most common types of neoplasia. Haematological cancer represents, also, a recurring cancer type. Today, a large number of chemotherapeutic drugs are used for cancer treatment, but researchers are looking for new possible therapies characterized by a greater efficacy and reduced side effects. There is an increasing interest to find new natural compounds with antiproliferative and anticancer properties. In this contest bioactive compounds, contained in Cynara extracts, play a key role. In this study, one clone (line CNR.L02.13, selected by U.O.S. Catania - ISAFOM) of Cynara cardunculus L. with a high content of bioactive molecules identified in preliminary research, was evaluated with one genotype of cardoon ('Bianco Avorio') and one genotype of globe artichoke ('Violetto di Sicilia') for multiple myeloma anticancer activity. The leaves from biological cultivation of Cynara were homogenized and subjected to extraction. This extract was used to separate a further aliquot of water-soluble bioactive molecules used in tests in vitro. In this study a multiple myeloma cellular line, called U266, was utilized. This line was stabilized with peripheral human blood. Cell cultures were treated with Cynara extracts at increasing concentrations: 5% (v/v), 10% (v/v) and 0% as blank. Tested extracts showed an antiproliferative activity and reduced activity of tumoral cells U266. We suggest that the Cynara, especially line CNR.L02.13, would be an important natural source of beneficial chemical products against haematological disease such as multiple myeloma and may be in the future a potential anticancer drug.