Anti-proliferative effect of Klimaktoplan (R) on human breast cancer cells

Abstract

With the health concerns of menopausal hormone replacement therapy, alternatives have been sought. Klimaktoplan(A (R)) is a homeopathic formulation consisting of four main components and has been used for relief of menopausal symptoms for a long time. The study investigated the safety of Klimaktoplan(A (R)) through its effect on the proliferation of breast cancer (MCF-7) and non-malignant mammary epithelial cells (MCF-10A). MCF-7 and MCF-10A cells were cultured in 312.5, 625, and 1,250 mu g/ml Klimaktoplan(A (R)). 17-Beta estradiol (E2) and medroxyprogesterone 17-acetate (MPA) were used for comparison with Klimaktoplan(A (R)). E2 only (0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 mu M), and the combination of E2 (0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 mu M) and MPA (0.01, 0.1, and 1 mu M) were tested. Control cells for Klimaktoplan(A (R)) and E2 groups were treated with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), and DMSO + ethanol was used for the combination group. Cellular proliferation was evaluated by the formation of insoluble formazan after incubation of 4 days. Klimaktoplan(A (R)) had a concentration-dependent anti-proliferative effect on breast cancer cells at 625 and 1,250 mu g/ml, while not affecting proliferation of non-malignant mammary cells at any tested concentration. The effect of lactose was evaluated as lactose (the adjuvant of Klimaktoplan(A (R))) affect cell growth. E2 and lactose increased the proliferation of both malignant and non-malignant cells. The effect of E2 + MPA on the proliferation of malignant and non-malignant mammary cells was lower than estradiol only, but was higher than control. Klimaktoplan(A (R)) has an anti-proliferative effect on breast cancer cells, but not for non-malignant mammary epithelial cells, unlike E2 and E2 + P. With further research, KP would be a good alternative or additive in women with menopausal symptoms who wish to avoid conventional E or E + P hormone therapy.