Investigation of anti-cancer effects of a palladium compound (Pd(bpma)(barb).Cl • H2O) in colorectal cancer cell lines

Background and Objective: Colon cancer ranks as the third most prevalent form of cancer globally. An eminent issue that arises during and after the treatment procedure is the development of drug resistance in cancer cells, rendering them unresponsive to therapy. Therefore, it is crucial to develop novel therapeutic targets for colon cancer therapy by thoroughly investigating all molecular pathways associated with the disease. Recent studies have shown that some metal compounds have intriguing therapeutic benefits, making them potential candidates for medication development. Studies on colon cancer indicate that apoptosis often functions as a pathway for survival. Methods: This thesis research aimed to explore the anti-cancer and cytotoxic effects of the Palladium (II) compound [[Pd(bpma)(barb)]Cl.H2O] on human colon cancer cell lines (HCT-15, HCT-116, and HT 29). The impact of the Pd (II) compound on cell viability was assessed using the MTT viability assay. To ascertain the cellular process by which the substance induces cell death, we investigated the impact of oxidative stress on DNA, autophagy, and the annexin V pathways using the flow cytometry technique. The process of programmed cell death, known as apoptosis, was seen in cells using the Hoechst 33342/Propidium Iodide staining technique, with the use of a fluorescence microscope. Ultimately, the RT-qPCR technique was used to analyze the gene expression levels of a total of 82 genes that are linked to these pathways. Results and Conclusion: The study revealed that the Pd (II) compound led to enhanced anti apoptotic activity and apoptosis in the HCT-15 cell line. Given the prediction that the Pd (II) molecule has potential as a candidate for an anti-cancer therapy, it is believed that doing more in vivo trials will provide valuable guidance for both clinical applications and future cancer research investigations.