In vitro cytotoxic and apoptosis-related effects of Liquidambar orientalis storax on MDAH-2774 human ovarian cancer cells

Aim Liquidambar orientalis Miller (Altingiaceae) is a relict endemic tree whose resinous exudate, storax, is traditionally used for antiseptic and wound-healing purposes; however, its activity against gynecological cancers is poorly characterized. This study evaluated the cytotoxic, anti-invasive, and apoptosis-related effects of L. orientalis storax on MDAH-2774 human ovarian cancer cells. Methods Cell viability was assessed using the XTT assay. Clonogenic survival, migration, and invasion were evaluated using colony formation, wound-healing, and Matrigel invasion assays. Apoptosis was examined by TUNEL staining, and the expression of apoptosis- and cell cycle–related genes was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. Results The storax preparation reduced cell viability across the tested concentrations and exposure times, with a 24-h IC₅₀ of 32.34 μg/mL. Treatment decreased colony formation by 24.5% and reduced the invasion rate from 72.4% to 38.4%, while wound-healing assays showed marked suppression of migration. The apoptotic index increased from 3.02% to 11.00%. Storax significantly upregulated the pro-apoptotic and death-receptor genes APAF1, BID, CASP10, FADD, FAS, TNF, and TRADD, and downregulated the anti-apoptotic gene BCL-XL. Conclusion L. orientalis storax preparation was associated with reduced cell viability, clonogenic growth, migration, and invasion in MDAH-2774 cells, along with an apoptosis-related response. These in vitro findings support further investigation of its selectivity and underlying mechanisms.