EXTRACTS FROM <em>Nicotiana glauca</em> INDUCE APOPTOSIS THROUGH CASPASES IN SKELETAL MUSCLE CELLS

Abstract

Phytoestrogens are plant compounds which have generated considerable interests. A litany of health benefits including a lowered risk of osteoporosis, breast cancer, and menopausal symptoms, are frequently attributed to phytoestrogens but without the knowledge of their side effects. We investigate the effects of lipid extracts from the Solanaceae Nicotiana glauca on skeletal muscle cells, in relation to apoptosis. Opposite to the effects of 17β-estradiol, the crude extract from N. glauca and its sub-extracts induced apoptosis in C2C12 cells. This apoptotic action involved caspase 3/7 activation. These data suggest that the traditional use of this medicinal plant could affect the skeletal muscle homeostasis.