Cytotoxic and Apoptotic Study of Protocatechuic Acid Nanosuspensions Assessed by in silico Molecular Analysis and AO/EB Staining Technique

Abstract

Background: Bone cancer, particularly osteosarcoma, is an aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis, often resistant to conventional chemotherapy. Protocatechuic Acid (PCA), a plant-derived polyphenol, holds anticancer potential but suffers from poor bioavailability. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of PCA Nanosuspensions (PCA-NS) on MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells and evaluated its molecular interactions via docking with two target proteins, topoisomerase II alpha (1ZXN) and p53 (1TUP). Results: PCA-NS exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity with an IC₅₀ of 46.10 µg/mL, and AO/ EB dual staining revealed apoptosis as the predominant mode of cell death. Molecular docking confirmed stable binding interactions with both targets, supporting the anticancer potential of PCA. Conclusion: These results highlight PCA-NS's significance as a viable option for treating bone cancer.