Spartium junceum (Fabaceae) Plant Extract: Biological Analysis and Anticancer Properties

Abstract

Spartium junceum L. has been traditionally used in folk medicine, and recent studies suggest it may possess significant biological activities. However, its potential antibacterial, anticancer, and genoprotective properties require further scientific validation. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and anticancer activities of methanol extracts of S. junceum, and to assess its protective effects against genotoxicity and oxidative DNA damage. The methanol extract exhibited strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The most pronounced effects were observed against Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus durans, with inhibition zones of 8.0 +/- 0 and 8.5 +/- 0.5 mm at 800 mg/mL, respectively. MIC values ranged from 100 to 400 mg/mL, particularly effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enteritidis. In anticancer assays using the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line, the extract showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity, with an estimated LD50 between 400 and 600 ppm. High concentrations induced necrosis, while lower doses-maintained cell viability. The Allium cepa root assay confirmed its protective effects against CuSO4-induced toxicity, showing improved mitotic index and reduced chromosomal abnormalities. Additionally, the extract does not show protective effect against hydroxyl radical-induced damage to supercoiled DNA in a plasmid relaxation assay. Spartium junceum methanol extract demonstrates promising antibacterial and anticancer activities. These findings support its potential application in the development of novel therapeutic agents.