The Cytotoxic impact of C.rotundus L. (Cyperaceae) on MCF-12A Cells: Estimation of LC 50 and LC 90

The plant species Cyperus rotundus L. (C. rotundus) belongs to the Family Cyperaceae, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Research has documented the cytotoxic capabilities of this species, suggesting that its chemical constituents could be potent against cell lines. To analyse the functional groups, present in Cyperus rotundus alcohollic extract (CRAE) using FTIR spectroscopy. To evaluate the cytotoxicity of CRAE using brine shrimp lethality test and cell lines. The alcoholic extract of C. rotundus dried powder was prepared. To identify functional groups and assess the chemical composition of C.rotundus, FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectroscopy was employed. We assessed the cytotoxic effect using Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay (BSLA). The Brine shrimp embryos were exposed to various concentrations of C.rotundus and incubated. Later, LC50 and LC90 were determined using MTT assay. In-vitro cell line (MCF 12A) was evaluated and DAPI staining was used to visualize nuclear changes, enabling an assessment of cytotoxicity and potential apoptosis induced by the extract. FTIR spectrum of CRAE reveals functional groups likely contributing to its bioactivity. Hydroxyl, alkyne, nitrile, carbonyl, and aromatic groups suggest presence of bioactive compounds. Brine shrimp lethality assay shows dose-dependent cytotoxicity of C. rotundus extract.LC₅₀ estimated at ~454.54 µg/mL and LC₉₀ expected above 1280 µg/mL. The MCF 12 cell lines when exposed to CRAE showed significant cell death. In conclusion, the FTIR analysis of CRAE revealed a complex mixture of functional groups, including hydroxyl, carbonyl, and aromatic compounds, which likely contribute to its bioactivity. These results collectively suggest that CRAE possesses significant cytotoxic properties, which become more pronounced with increasing concentration. The observed effects on cell viability, membrane integrity, and nuclear morphology provide strong evidence for the extract's potential as an anticancer agent.